I think the whole thing hinges on public trust. I think one of the worst things the police (as a whole not any specific municipality) has done is foster a feeling of animosity between themselves and the citizens they protect.

Regardless of anyone's opinion on why or how I think we can all agree that a significant portion of the population no longer trusts the police. And I don't mean just minority people. I'm white as snow. But I remember all too well sitting in hour after hour of DARE classes only to learn later in life how much was just flat out lies.

If we change that I think it will solve several societal problems. And I say this living in a community where the police officers are greeted warmly by everyone. Because they represent our demographics. They treat citizens with respect. They are our neighbors. They do things like "Breakfast with a cop." and interact with school kids in positive ways. My local police force seems themselves as part of the community just like local firefighters, EMS, teachers, etc.

I think we find ourselves stuck in a cycle. And some group has to break it for real change to take place. And our options on that front are Police Departments or millions of individuals with their own opinions and feelings. And though it won't be easy clearly the Police Departments are better situated than anyone to make this change and break the cycle.