Foreign students receive lesson in American law enforcement

Images of American law enforcement as seen through the eyes of those who don’t live here, might seem sensational.

From certain cop shows, to the stories controversial enough to be broadcast worldwide it’s not a real reflection, or at the least not a complete picture.

That’s why Wicomico County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Tim Robinson spoke to some international visitors Thursday night at Salisbury University.

He spoke with students visiting the U.S. from China, South Korea, and Spain as apart of a study abroad program. He says he is quite happy with the progress the program has made over the years.

“It was started three years ago and it’s remarkable. It’s grown every year.” Said Lt. Robinson.

Amongst the students there were two Spanish students, named Angela and Patricia.

When asked about how American law enforcement is perceived overseas, Angela responded, “It’s true that on TV people think that they will kill somebody, I don’t know why.”

Lt. Robinson also commented on the perception, saying, “In foreign lands they may perceive American law enforcement as a bunch of gun toting cowboys, and that’s not the case.”

While there’s no denying than in some cases police do have to draw their weapons, and have killed people, this presentation was about more common circumstances that might not make it onto international news programs or TV shows.

Lt. Robinson showed the students some of the techniques police use to subdue somebody, like handcuffing and pepper spray. Showing the harsh reality of having to use force.

Patrica, whose mom is a police officer in Spain, tells 47 ABC that she much respects the job and everything that comes with it.

“My mother is a police officer in Spain, so I think they both do very brave jobs.”

In addition to learning about American law enforcement, the students are also spending time honing their English language skills while learning about American life, history, and culture.