Ep 7. The Force

"The Force" is an episode of the 19th season of Independent Lens that takes a deep dive into the San Francisco police department and the challenges they face in the wake of high-profile cases of police brutality and corruption. The episode centers around two key figures: Chief Bill Scott, who was brought in from Los Angeles to revitalize the department, and Sgt. Yulanda Williams, a veteran officer who is working within the system to affect change from the inside.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the history of policing in San Francisco, highlighting the relationship between the police and the city's diverse communities and the instances of racially motivated violence that have marred that relationship. It then introduces Chief Scott, who is shown walking the streets of San Francisco and talking with residents about their concerns and experiences with law enforcement. Scott emphasizes the importance of community policing and building trust with the people the department is sworn to protect.

From there, the episode shifts its focus to Sgt. Williams, an African American officer who has been with the department for over 25 years. Williams speaks candidly about the challenges she has faced as a Black woman in a male-dominated profession and her frustration with the systemic issues within the department that have allowed officers to get away with violence and corruption. Despite these challenges, Williams remains committed to reforming the department from within and is shown leading training sessions on implicit bias and racial profiling for fellow officers.

The episode also explores several case studies that highlight the complexities of policing in San Francisco. One involves a group of officers who were caught on tape making racist and homophobic remarks. Chief Scott is shown responding swiftly and decisively, firing the officers and publicly denouncing their behavior. Another case involves a man who was shot and killed by police in his own home in the midst of a mental health crisis. The episode follows the subsequent investigation into the shooting and its impact on the community.

Throughout the episode, there are also interviews with community activists, lawyers, and other experts who offer their perspectives on the challenges facing the police department and the wider issue of police violence in America. These voices highlight the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement and the need for broader systemic reform.

Overall, "The Force" offers a nuanced and timely exploration of the complex issues at the heart of policing in America today. Through its focus on individuals like Chief Scott and Sgt. Williams and their efforts to enact change, the episode offers both a sobering look at the challenges facing law enforcement and a hopeful reminder of the potential for progress.