> The police have maintained that the shooting was an act of self-defense, as they argue that Merzouk was driving towards the officer. However, since the video was released, this claim has faced significant criticism.
So if this video didn't exist, which the police didn't make and might not have released if they did, what then?
To say the system is working is a horrible thing to say in light of that. How many homicides happened in a similar way with no video by third parties? We both know that we both don't know, by definition. And it's a privilege to not be held awake by that question, to not live with that fear in the back of your head 24/7. If not for yourself, then maybe for your wayward son, who you so hope will grow out of it.
And it's a privilege to not be held awake by that question, to not live with that fear in the back of your head 24/7.
If fear of the tiny number of police shootings in France is constantly in the back of your head, either you are in a state of constant paralyzing fright or your fears have no relation to your risks. More people are killed by lightning in France than are shot by police.
Putting aside whether Nahel was a threat to pedestrians, the officer in question was apprehended and charged. That's the system working.