I ran into a group of police officers in Sicily; two Carabinieri and a Munciple Polizia. They were very friendly and engaging. We got along immediately. I was getting hugs and enthusiastic handshacks. We asked each other questions about police work in our different countries.
Although they said they had very little crime, I found it hard to believe as I was in Sicily and was on a ship's tour called "Land of the Godfather." The Carabinieri is the state police agency and has full police authority and jurisdiction. The local police has a much less resposibility and fewer police powers.
They were interested in our use of firearms. They had the impression that we were all in gunfights all the time. I guess it looks like that from the rescent news. As I was leaving later, the Carabinieri from across the parking lot, snapped to attention and gave me a smart salute. I returned it. Good guys.
I was with a large tour group from the ship, mostly Americans. They couldn't beleive I just walk up to the police and start talking to them. It gives you an idea of what they think of us in general.
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