Not Fo' Sho'

I usually assume nothing's going on in Arizona. And I'm usually right. Then I saw this.



Some cops in Tempe were about to arrest some African Americans for littering. The encounter was part of a segment for "TempeStreetbeat," Arizona's homespun version of Cops. Instead of giving a ticket, the cop issued an ultimatum: Do a rap, on camera, or I'll fine you.

Really? The old I-will-legally-penalize-unless-you-act-like-a-stereotype-for-all-the-world-to-see routine? Sounds like the older You-negars-is-real-good-at-a'singin'-and-a'dancin'-hail-hitler act.

The cop later said, "You know I'm right...because I have a badge and a gun." Note to self: moral rectitude is ascertained by appearance.

I guess the next time I get pulled over I'll skip the "what seems to be the problem officer?" bit and just soft shoe my way scott free.

Fine or a gross cultural oversimplification? Either way, I'm keeping some Morton Salt in the glove compartment.