Originally Posted by Bishopcolle (Post 603720)

Well, I can't disagree with you all...but I am NOT thinking as a parent, and that's my problem...I'm thinking as a 32-year cop....trying to establish some order without hands on (I agree with that), but you're right....too much cop trying to establish order...better to back off and sort it out long distance....
Whew! That's hard for me to do.....[/QUOTE

I'm a cop too, however my dept says off duty the only REQUIREMENT is to call 911.If I decide to take action I run the risk of civil liability and a possible IA complaint. Also I rarely do games in the jurisdiction I work. Therefore if I would write down numbers, don't touch anyone, ensure the ON DUTY Police are called, make ejections, be a good witness, That way I make my assoc. and department happy!
Old motto from an old timer cop. "If you put your hands on someone, lock them up"!

Originally Posted by ozzy6900 (Post 603812)

It's easy! You're hang-up is your badge! That is what allows you do become "involved" in an altercation. Umpires are officials but not police. We cannot become involved with the altercation once it starts. We can try and prevent it, but once it starts, the law is not with us if we get involved.

Example: Police officer grabs Player1 by the arm and Player2 punches Player1 in the face breaking his jaw. The officer is not sued for holding the arm of Player1. We as sports officials would be.

Originally Posted by spokanelurker (Post 603892)

As a coach with whom several of you often disagree, here's my take. One of my kids asked me in jest this year, "Coach, what would you do if we brawl?" My answer was clear and not in jest: "I'd pull all of you off the field and we'd forfeit." Don't care what rule's cited, or what might start it, we'd be done, and it wouldn't take an umpire to make the decision for me.

Originally Posted by umpjong (Post 603830)

I always found that pulling my off duty weapon out of my spare ball bag and firing a warning shot was very effective.... (at least it worked for me ;))