The arrests of five Memphis Police Department officers for murder have brought the issue of police reform to centerstage once again.

The question is not whether police work needs to be reformed or not. Of course, it does. As a matter of fact, law enforcement must improve itself every time new laws are passed, the courts set a new precedent for existing law, a new issue is brought up in a civil lawsuit, or there are technological changes.

• By the nature of the work, continuous change is required.

• Some of the problems that are being discussed are:

• Certain groups oppose Qualified Immunity laws that protect officers from frivolous civil lawsuits.

Legislation making it illegal for officers to use choke holds. If you wear a gun, every fight can quickly become a fight for your life. If the other guy gets control of your gun, a chokehold may be your best chance to gain control of the situation.

Outlawing “No Knock Warrants” is popular with some people. Consider a kidnapper holding a four-year child hostage, and there is good reason to believe he will kill the child if he thinks he is about to be arrested. Should police knock on the door and ask for permission to come in?

Required or statutory changes must be made in a measured and reasonable manner, not driven by emotional reactions. Any changes should be made only after a thoughtful discussion of all relevant issues. These discussions are already taking place in Tennessee and Washington, D.C.

These are critical decisions, and everyone’s voice should be heard. Make your beliefs count by voicing your opinion to your elected representatives.

Jim Leach is a career law enforcement official and author. His books can be found at booksbyleach.com