The only realistic limits imposed on the police in our society are those defined by the courts. In a time of fear of crimes, both real and imagined, the social climate appears distinctly to favor a more aggressive approach to law enforcement and the public attitude is seemingly more accepting of fewer controls over the police.
The facts of the false arrest case of Melvin Walker, Leila Stephens, Terrance Tignor, and Otis Tignor against the City of Pompano Beach illustrate the danger innocent citizens can face in this modern society and, more significantly, the degree to which police discretion can subject any member of society to moments of helpless terror.