Debating the police -- with the police chief

A few days ago, the Davis Chamber of Commerce sponsored a "candidates' forum." A forum resembles a debate, except slightly more boring. David Greenwald at the Davis Vanguard covered it extensively, and the David Enterprise printed a front-page article on the forum.

I said what the others wouldn't. To quote the Vanguard,

Daniel Watts was rough around the edges but clearly the conscience of the group that was willing to take on the tough issue and let the chips fall where they may. He went after unconstitutional city ordinances, the police who he claims harass students and homeless people, city salaries, the firefighters, landlord-tenant disputes, the Davis Model lease, you name it. Said Mr. Watts, "We don't have an advocate for the voiceless on the city council. I intend to be that advocate."

The Chamber asked how we would sustain enrollment in Davis's schools. I explained how we cannot expect young families to return to Davis, where they spent four years as students, if the city mistreats them when they are students.

"No offense to members of the force in attendance," I said, gesturing to Davis Police Chief Landy Black in the front row, "but the police do not have a good relationship with the students."

During the campus protests, the police -- working with the CHP and UCPD -- beat peaceful protesters with clubs. They tased them, then lied about tasing them, then admitted to the lie when they realized they'd been caught on video.

It's unfortunate.