It's easier to harass inoffensive drug posessors or people not wearing seatbelts, then tackle real criminals or terrorists.
Policemen may be greedy and lazy and even stupid (after significant lowering of their test standards related to accusations of racial discrimination), but they are not that stupid.
We are bound to pay taxes for their salaries and retirement but we have no say in what they do, so why would they bother? It's not private enterprise that has to provide value to the customer.
I saw a TV interview with a policewoman at a Marijuana supporters gathering in New York. She was asked "would you rather stay here and try to catch a guy with a joint, or be out there chasing the terrorists".
The stupid ***** looks right into the camera and says she would much rather be here away from danger. Saw it with my own eyes!
miko