Customer Reviews

Burden of the Badge: A Year in the Life of a Street Cop

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This book is a true representation as to what really goes on in this line of work. A must read for anyone who is a police officer, desires to be a police officer, or knows a police officer.

This book is a vivid portrayal of how some of the old industrial towns and cities are descending into decay. While Mr. East does list the events that occur while he's on his patrols, I detect more often than not the sadness he feels on a day to day basis due to people's general disdain for police officers in Saginaw. He mentions kids barely old enough to go to school being disrespectful in horrible ways to police officers. I don't blame the kids...its obvious this behavior is encouraged by the parents, which is really disgusting. These are the same people who will be screaming at a 911 operator that they need help, why aren't the police here yet, etc. I haven't finished the book yet, but its mainly page after page of what I'd call a deep depression. Its sad that these police officers who have sworn to protect and serve these people are hated and disrespected by these same people. Mr. East, if you haven't done so yet, I'd suggest you find employment in another town, perhaps one that doesn't hate cops so much. Let the people of Saginaw find their own way in their downward spiral of lawlessness. As I read the book, I can almost physically feel the sorrow that Mr. East experiences every time he hits the streets.

Mr. East has written a journal describing a frustrating year spent attempting to police the town of Saginaw,Michigan. A dying town that once was a hub of the automobile industry. It would seem that most of the residents were not worth trying to save. Hats off to the dedicated police officers for trying.

I am the wife of a police officer and bought this book for my husband. We both thought the book was excellent. We loved it! The author taps into how the job is at times exciting, fulfilling, dangerous, boring, mundane, repetitive, and how the job can get to you mentally and emotionally. The book is a call by call look at what police officers do. Anyone who is a police officer would understand and relate to this book.

Since I am interested in being a police officer this is one of the books my uncle recommended me to read. The BS cops have to put up with expressed in this autobiography makes me think twice about trying out for police work--don't know if I could keep my sanity! Hats off to those who put up with it, you all are deserving of greater recognition for all that you do for our cities. Recommended for those thinking about police careers.

Anyone that has a desire to be a police officer should read this book. It shows how the constant tedious BS calls everyday wear on the officers. I would not want that job. A definite must read for any law enforcement bound person.

Just finished this book and found it interesting. The call by call layout of the book made it flow. A must read for any law enforcement enthusiasts.

You have to read this book! A day by day, call by call accounting of a street cop. You feel the passion of the officer and understand the frustration that police officers face each and every day. Officer East places you in the back seat of his patrol car as he answers every call the entire year.

YOU HAVE TO READ pages 201-203 Regarding the Tax increase that was turned down and the note that is on Officer East's Frig. This section of the book "Struck my heart" and I will never look at that job the same again. AN OUTSTANDING, EASY TO READ, HIGHLY RECOMMEND BOOK!!

Quick and easy transaction, I received the book in the alloted time as well! thanks!

Mike East did a tremendous job here. I am a police officer in a neighboring jurisdiction to his, live in Saginaw, and see first hand what these brave officers deal with. Now their numbers are shrinking due to a corrupt city hall and apathetic citizens, violent crime is flourishing, yet they still retain their sense of humor on nearly every call they go to. I am always Proud and Honored to back these brave men and women up whenever I have the chance. The Police Officers of the City of Saginaw are true heros who fight for a lost cause. I salute every one of you.