I can't count on one hand how many times I've personally been guilty of a driving infraction and thought I was about to be pulled over only to see that the police officer was too busy talking on his cell phone to even notice me breaking the law. Score!

Despite the new policy only allowing firearms in checked baggage there is nothing to stop someone from bringing a gun or any other weapon or contraband on an Amtrak train. I wouldn't be surprised if people already carry concealed weapons on board and/or smuggle drugs on the train.

I'd like to see a street level, neighborly "over the fence" themed section where residemts could keep up on the crime that is too mundane to make the mainstream news but is what actually affects most residents. Apparently this isn't sensational enough to make most news but it would be useful information that might actually help in preventing crime and apprehending offenders.

When I was a bit younger I had an experience with the Police that shaped my view of law enforcement for years. I wasn't completely innocent but I wound up with a policeman's gun to my head and a threat to kill me if I moved. Years later, I must say my opinion has changed. Back then I would have been totally on board with the copwatch, now while not completely opposed to it I have no interest in supporting this. The police are generally good people trying to uphold our laws in the face of many challenges. They get very little respect, are blamed for not responding to or preventing crime and to top it off they show up to work every shift not knowing if they will live through the next 10 hours. I've had many contacts with police over the years. I've been to jail once, been issued at least 15 traffic citations and pulled over countless times. I do have sympathy for those who are wrongfully harassed but many times they deserve it. I think that the copwatch folks will start to realize this as they watch situations unfold, assuming they get the background and the whole story instead of showing up in time for the beat down. I hate to break it to you but many people who get roughed up deserve it. In fact, when I was in jail I saw the deputies toss a guy around a bit for being uncooperative and disruptive. He deserved worse. The point is there are a lot of real bad guys out there amongst us and thankfully the police are actually doing something about it. I hope that the copwatch does some good by showing Sacramentans what the Police deal with on a daily basis.