Several police departments have acquired military style weapons and vehicles. But a survey finds the majority of Illinois residents are against that practice. Three out of five residents surveyed say military style equipment should be left for the armed forces. The opposition is even greater among African Americans.
The Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at SIU Carbondale conducted the poll in late September and early October, as protests in Ferguson, Missouri were playing out on TV. The Institute's Charlie Leonard says it's likely many white residents were caught unaware of the militarization of police departments.
"And then to see armored personnel carriers on the streets of little Ferguson, Missouri is a shocker."
Other findings indicate overall, most residents think police are doing a good job. But fewer black residents feel that way.
Blacks responding were also more likely to say the racial makeup of a police force should match the community it serves.