You'll want to be careful who you are listening to for casual advice. Power to arrest != expert of MGL. A badge might indicate familiarity with laws due to working proximity to them, but I'd just say that correct interpretation and intimate understanding of all MGL is not a strict prerequisite for the job. That's up to the attorneys and DA. Hence why you'll sometimes hear about arrests, but later dropped charges or no charges at all.
Of course, It is why I am enduring this crowd. Some where there is a relevant citation ... or not.
Either way. part of my "Due Diligence".
(Edit) "Reluctant", I would add, your point is exactly on. The difference between"Can do / Should do". How do you want to wake up Monday morning.
One will endure the beliefs of the responding officers and the Dept.
You may very likely find yourself defending in court, a decision you made.
Don't misunderstand me, I have respect for the job our LE does. Not easy. I don't envy them.
For my LTC classes, I get all kinds of questions. This is me leaving "No Stone Unturned" looking for perspective.
FWIW, I am catching up on reading, asking an attorney, other firearm instructors etc.
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