Lodi Police Investigating After Child Fires SWAT Officer’s Gun

[alp227]

Police are investigating after an officer’s gun was accidentally discharged by a child at August’s Literacy Fair in downtown Lodi.

“This should have never happened, especially in an environment where children were present,” Lodi Police Chief Mark Helms said.

On Aug. 24, SWAT Officer Robert Rench was displaying tactical equipment to children at the Lodi Public Library. A boy — around 6 to 8 years old — walked up behind Rench and pulled the trigger of his holstered handgun, say officials.

As a result, the bullet grazed the side of the officer’s leg.

full: http://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2013/09/01/lodi-police-investigating-after-child-discharges-swat-officers-gun/

Take his badge away, seriously. And how the (BLEEP) can a holstered gun be FIRED? There's gotta be more to the story than written here!

[exboyfil]

1. This is going to happen with an armed teacher

someday and somebody is going to be hit by the bullet. If a SWAT professional can't keep his gun secure, how can a teacher in daily intimate contact with students be sure this will not happen.

[gejohnston]

2. actually, no.

a teacher wouldn't have that type of holster. This one is mounted on the thigh and made to accommodate flashlight attached to the pistol. A teacher would have better situation awareness in the classroom than a cop.
http://www.thetruthaboutguns.com/2013/09/robert-farago/police-holster-issues/

[discntnt_irny_srcsm]

4. In addition...

...teachers, faculty and, for that matter, no one should open carry in a school.

[ManiacJoe]

5. It surprises me that Safariland would make a holster that badly designed

as the one pictured here.

[beemer27]

3. Unacceptable !!!

This guy was sleeping during the firearms safety training that all law enforcement get. He was not aware of his own personal space, and his holster was definitely not approved for police work. This guy should never have a badge, or carry a firearm. Remedial training will not fix anyone who's head is so far up his ass. There are plenty of qualified applicants. Pick one who is aware of his surroundings, and pays attention in class. This "incident" was avoidable, and this "officer" should not have another chance to screw up this bad again.
Clowns like this make it harder for the good cops to receive the respect that they deserve. When you are under color of law, and armed, you are on duty 24/7. There are, and can be, no excuses. Everyone must know that the officer he is dealing with is a well-trained professional, and will act accordingly.
My opinion on this is not hard or harsh. It is the way that must be. Police officers have the power to make decisions that will affect the rest of your life, or end your life. They can not screw up this bad.