I'll never forget the moment I was schooled in the realities of what being a cop really meant. I was still a rookie with about 3 weeks on the street. My FTO and I got a call to a seedy motel about screams being heard. As we pulled up I heard the horrific cry of a small child and charged the room smashing in the door. The child's mother had a hot iron and was pressing it down hard into the bare stomach of the 3 year old. I shoved her out of the way and had to peel the hot iron out of the child's flesh. Based on the depth of the wound she had been doing this for quite some time. I was so enraged I spun to face the mother and was reaching for my revolver. My FTO stepped in front of me and stopped me and said "it's part of the job, you have to learn to deal with it". I never lost it like that again but my eyes were opened that day for sure.

the first time i was pulled over by a cop was when i was 9 and riding my bike with the right safety checks. he gave me a DQ free ice cream ticket for being safe on my bike

Real as it gets. My partner was shot in his chest yesterday on a warrant service. I feel helpless right now.

I am a retired Deputy Sheriff, served 21 years with my department. This video is 100% correct. You are going to see the worst things imaginable. But being there to help a victim makes all the bad stuff worth it. I have had parents come up to me years after I responded to a call to their house and thank me saying that the night I spoke to their kid, changed that kids life and turned them from the bad path they were heading down. You do have to face the fact you cannot save everyone. But if you can save one, it makes it all worth it. Throughout my whole career I had one main rule. Treat everyone the way you would want to be treated. It don't matter if you were a victim or a suspect or just a witness. Treat everyone with respect and professionalism. Until that person did something to the contrary then they brought that on themselves. But still stay professional. You will deal with the worst people in society. Put yourself in their position, would you want a cop coming up to you and talking down to you. No so don't do it to others. And remember the better you do your job the longer these people do in jail. And one final thing, don't be afraid to talk to people. You can get alot of information from people just by talking. I had a suspect one time I felt it was about to get into a physical fight when it wad time to arrest him. I could see he knew it was coming and started squaring off, puffing up, when i asked him, dude thats a nice car, what year is it?, something that simple threw him off and just kept asking questions about the car. After a bit he calmed down and when it was time to put him in cuffs, he knew I was there just doing my job and I was human. Best years of my life. So if your considering becoming a law enforcement officer, yes there is alot of bad out there, but the little victories make it all worth it. Stay safe my brothers and sisters

Listening to this makes me feel like he had flashbacks and nightmares frequently...... Through all of these ugly truths, I see a beautiful person. Thank you for your service.

I was pulled over yesterday and asked if they heard of you and they said no and I just looked crazy

I used to hate police officers, i grew up around drug users and dealers. As i grew up i realized what Police Officers stand for and what they do for our community. Now im pursuing a career in law enforcement.

My father is a retired police officer, he never brought his work home with him but he always made sure we knew the dark side of life and showed us the value of integrity and honor and what it looks like for those who don't posses such values. Ty for your service 401

As a paramedic I have seen many of these that he is listing off. It stays with you. Whenever someone asks you what the worst call you have ever had you respond with "which one?"

This is the most legit shit I’ve ever heard.

I used to hate cops; they came so many time in my home when I was a kid, parents from he'll. But as I grown up; you guys have all my respect. Tough job for sure.

We watched a kid burn to death in a car one night. He was calling out to my officers before I got there. They were so messed up after that. Angry they could not save him. I wish I could get one of those MIB flashy things to erase my memory when I retire in 5 years. It really takes a piece of your soul. Too many terrible memories, just too many.

This is easily one of the most powerful videos I've ever seen. You shouldn't be so modest when you talk about how quickly your channel has grown. You've earned every sub.

I've been an officer for just four months and it's amazing how much of this I've already experienced. Officer 401 is absolutely correct, it's a very rewarding career but it comes with its costs and sacrifices.

This video was so sad to hear 😢 It's the nature of the job but people really don't know what you guys experience on a daily basis. Stay safe and always thanks for what you do!

Don't care what folks say about Cops or in the military. thank you for what you do. Physically and Emotionally it has to be tough.

In the 90s I went on a ride-along with my boyfriend who was the city of Miami cop, he had a call it was a triple homicide, I was so scared I didn't even want to leave the vehicle, he told me not to worry everything would be okay, when I entered the home it was the most horrific thing I've ever seen, that's when I knew I don't have what it takes to be a police officer. Much respect to you.

Thanks for your service brother..God bless you and your family.

This makes me want to be a cop even more thank you sir

When my dad Buried his partner it was heartbreaking because that was his best friend. And hearing you speak about that is really really relatable.

As a Marine Veteran and as a current LEO I wanted to start to cry at the end around 8:20. most people don't understand the toll it takes on your own mental state. thanks again 401 from South Carolina

Officer, just so you know. I was one of those little kids that was abused and abandoned by my parents. I had so many cops over the years of my childhood genuinely trying to help me. They couldn't. My parents told me to lie. I just turned 21 and now I'm pursuing a career in law enforcement. Because of people like you that can see the reality of a situation but are just fucked over by big wigs and make it so you can never help a kid.

Let me also add this: I worked in EMS for 7 years as an EMT in the DC area before going on to medical school. It is not at all unusual (at least back in the 80's or 90's) to have cops that have double rolls as volunteer firefighters and paramedics. Because of their police training they saved my ass more times than I can count. Example: An unconscious drunk regained consciousness and grabbed my leg while taking his blood pressure. The guy was huge and I was maybe 19. The FF/Cop sprang into action and had him in a head-lock within 5 seconds. For anyone who thinks cops are pigs, just remember the next time someone breaks into your house or a family member stops breathing or you are in a horrible accident. Chances are, the first people on the scene will be a cop and they will save your ass too. Thank you for your service and thank's for saving my ass.

Welp, I'm dead inside so sounds like this job is perfect

Hardest thing I ever did even though I'm new to the force was seeing an entire family burn to death in a jeep fire hit by a drunk teenager. Worse part is I went to school with the guy who was drunk. I was 2nd on the scene behind my supervisor and seeing a burned 3 and 7 yr old while I have a 4 and 6yr old literally broke me...I dropped to my knees and cried and cried and cried..it was so horrible I had to take some time off and went on vacation for a week just to hold my family close.

All of this and I’m still determined to do it. I want so badly to be involved with the community I grew up in, to give back and work with the kids in our community. My mom told me, people die everyday, people get killed sitting on the damn couch at home watching tv, why not be doing something meaningful, something worthwhile? Why not be of service to others? Thank you for the video!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

I retired after 35 years. As a rule I am convinced the public does not give a damn about Officers.

I had experience with a dead body as a intern for a smaller police department. Very sobering moment in my life and made me realize a lot of things, it was very sad to learn he had no relatives and was a loner so it was a very sad day. But I learned a lot and actually it drove me to become an officer even more. Currently working on becoming a State Trooper in Michigan.

Every Anti-Police person should watch this video

It's just hit me halfway through this video that he's speaking of stuff he's actually seen not just making up scenarios. Deep shit.

My good friend retired from Boston PD. He is now coping with PTSD. He is getting help and I told him I am there for you no matter what you need. A shoulder to lean on, an ear to listen or just anything.

Crazy to think I watched this years ago without any expectation of being a cop. Earlier this week in the classroom, I watched this same video in my academy class. Thanks 401 for putting me on the right path!

I was a paramedic for a decade , preach it sir. Well said video.

Same with firefighters. The Brotherhood is there. I would do anything to protect my Brothers and Sisters at the station

Every time a police car drives by me I will say a prayer for their safety and God’s strength and protection. I know firsthand the things they see and have to do. Law enforcement and Military, God bless you all.

Not one single video clip of any of these situations and it felt real and hit just as hard. Thank you.

I used to be a police cadet and they told me to get used to seeing dead people, and they explained graphic real stories. I will never forget...

One thing I never expected was the support and compassion I received at the hands of two arresting officers. I have been having so many years of depression and anxiety, and shit just not workin out and, well, lotsa stuff just went wrong so quickly, and even though I was shocked and humiliated and in total disbelief at what is going on, I have never experienced so much compassion and understanding than from the two officers that showed up. With open invitations to just come by and talk if you have nobody else. Damn, man, I really appreciate all you guys and gals. Thank you for your vids. And thank you for your honesty about all these topics. I applied once, but now in life, not sure if I could take it. You folks are something else, man. Thank you all.

I saw this in my recommended. I’m a 14 yr old and I kinda wish I didn’t watch this video. Thank you cops for all your service, and in these times I want you guys to know I have your back!

This was extremely eye opening, thank you for sharing this.

Speaking of drunk drivers, my friends dad was a cop for our city, very well known and respected, I think he was a lieutenant, I'll keep it anonymous for privacy reasons, but they were on vacation in Florida, on the way home, a drunk driver got on the wrong on rap for interstate, drove head on into them, he somehow turned the car so he would absorb all the impact, he had cardiac arrest and died on seen, his wife was injured and hospitalized, the 2 kids in the back seat walked away, was the biggest funeral I've seen, his son that was in the car with him, well we graduated high school a year ago and he's now going to West Virginia state trooper school, in honor of his dad

Been in law enforcement for 13 years. Everything you have mentioned has happened. And yes that is the side of this job people do not see.

This man hit it right on the head. Similar things can be said for those in the Fire and EMS service, I’m an EMT myself. Like he said, these are just the ugly moments. No Guarantee a First Responder will experience any of these horrific tragedies every shift or the next shift. There are a lot of happy moments, I would argue more than ugly ones. But the reason the ugly moments are more important is because it’s not the happy ones that wake you up at night. It’s not the happy ones that you question if you made the right call. It’s not the happy ones that make you wonder if you’re going to come home to your family that night. It’s not the happy ones that stick with you for the rest of your life. It’s not the happy ones that lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Everyone trys to live their life the happiest, and the fullest it can be. You can never have too much happiness in your life. But you can have too much sadness and broken hearts. Some people can tolerate those ugly moments better than others, but everyone has their breaking point. It’s natural for humans to experience joyful times, it’s not natural for humans to witness horrific scenes and pain and suffering on other humans, so often. That is the unfortunate reality of a Law Enforcement Officer, or any First Responder. They see more trauma and broken people/families in one month than the average citizen sees in their entire life. So if you decide to become a First Responder, that’s fantastic! But understanding these ugly moments that you will inevitably see is why it’s important to ask for help when YOU need it. First Responders are always hesistant to call for help themselves (I’m guilty as charged.) Some things are understandable. Even the stubborn ones that will walk on their broken leg immediately after surgery or something like that. When it comes to mental health, you CANNOT wait until that spirals out of control before you ask for help. And as a First Responder, keep an eye on your colleagues. It is far more difficult and time consuming to heal a broken brain than a broken leg. Mental illnesses are very real, and are arguably more dangerous than real illnesses. Real illnesses can be treated with proven medicines, which is a science. Since every person is different, it’s impossible to know how their brain works. If it’s sick, such as reliving a horrible car accident where 3 children died, the brain plays tricks on the person and does what it wants. It’s impossible to look into your head, so it’s impossible to find the best solution. That’s why mental health issues take so long to bring under control, if at all. Become a First Responder for the happy moments, but be aware of the ugly moments. And when you’ve seen too many ugly moments, reach out. Get help. You’re colleagues will be there for you.

Why do actors and NFL players get paid more. Imagine the outrage people would have it it was all fair. If I become president cops and firefighters and all hero's need to make more money

yet another reason I respect the blue. they are the men and women with balls #BlueLivesMatter

I am still dead set of being a cop nothing can change that good vid. Keep it up

And feminists keep on saying being a mom is the hardest job.

I’m the kid of two drug addicts, and all of my childhood memories is watching cops take away my momma , and knowing the reason I didn’t have a dad until I was 6 was because the cops took him before I was born, I was destin to hate cops , but I knew that every time my momma got out of jail, she wanted to turn her life around, she never did, but she wanted to, so I’ve always wanted to be a cop with the hopes that I’ll be some mothers breaking point, that makes her get clean, so my plans to become a sheriffs deputy, right now I work with children, and every once in a while a parent will come pick there kid up after just getting out of jail, or say goodbye on there way to court knowing there not coming back for a while, and it breaks my heart, which leaves me wondering if I’d be mentally capable of being a cop, thank you for this video, and thank you for your service

I would like to thank all police and fire officers. I will never forget the day when an officer arrived at my door and told me at 10 years old that my sister was in a car crash. Police and firefighters did everything they could and even came and dropped food off for my family who never left the hospital. Sadly she passed but it inspired me to want to be a firefighter. That was a few years ago and I am forever greatful to the police and fire officers

A badge is a ticket to the greatest show on earth.

In 5th grade, I was in the D.A.R.E program and I absolutely loved the officer that came to my school and taught us. At the end of the school year, we were going to have a party for our graduation, and the day of the party I got the news that my officer had been killed by a drunk driver on his way to work that day. I was heartbroken and I never forgot him. He was a huge part of my life and he still is today. There is a picture of him on my bedroom wall and it has been there since 5th grade (I'm in 10th grade now). When I moved, it was the first thing to go up in my new room. I just want you to know that although there are people out there that hate you guys, I appreciate you guys so much and that you guys are truly inspiring and deserve so much respect for the work you do.

This is the reality of being a police officer. Thank you for your service.

A cop saved my life. I used drugs and was overdosed in a slump. Alone. In my car. And without that officer even giving a single shit about me and 6 narcans in my chest later, I respect you guys so much. Thank you. Also the EMTs helped me too :p ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Reasons like these are why law enforcement officers should be paid more. They deal with so much shit and unfortunately are very underpaid. Such a shame.

When I originally watched this video, I had no clue that the “50 year old that had a heart attack in their hallway” would be my own mother, life sucks, and I realize how bad the cop on scene must’ve felt for me, especially since he couldn’t do anything to help. I think all this video has done is encourage me more somehow, love ya 401.

"I believe in shouting for those who can only whisper, I'm standing up for people who can't stand up for themselves." This is my favorite quote, and one of the many things that motivates me to be a cop. Thank you for all that you do.

I don't know how anybody could work for the public and dedicate their life to serving the public and yet be so hated by the public. Most cops are very under paid and work long hours.

Retired eight years ago after twenty years. Some in admin but most on the street. Not a big agency, only about 25 sworn. Everything this officer said is 100 percent true. The glow wears right off after you've seen your third or fourth Signal 46--Dead Body. Welcome to every possible way to decompose, about one per week for us. Very few of them homicides. And after you've walked away from that fatal car wreck that took the life of one of your fellow officers, and a total stranger literally pulls the shirt off his back and offers it to you to wipe your friend's blood off your face because you tried to save him with CPR, and when you and seven other officers carry his coffin the last one hundred feet--well, that's when you understand the meaning of the term "dead weight." You will carry him around for a long time. And then the glorious day comes when your know-it-all elected officials decide that your real function as a police department is "Crime Prevention." Thirty minutes after the clapping ends, a car gets stolen, or a house is burglarized, or some lowlife beats his girl friend into bloody pulp, and guess what? Now it's YOUR fault because you didn't PREVENT THE CRIME from happening. So keep your nose clean and hold on to your shitty-ass pension until you can try to walk away from it all with a little bit of dignity. Good luck with that. Hey, I'm not bitter. Maybe a little cynical, but I never claimed to be Captain America.

I’m 14, looking to be a cop or a park ranger. I’m one of those kids who’s been through a lot of ugly shit, not a spoiled brat complaining about how he didn’t get his mc Donald’s right away. Unfortunately I know a few of the horrors you mentioned my goal is to prevent that as much as possible, I love ur channel by the way! ❤️

I think this is hands down one of the best videos you posted. My upmost appreciation to you for communicating the real side of the job. We need more cops like you...and more people like you.

I quit my LEO career after just 7 months. Everything you said here is true and happens before your eyes, nose and ears. My takeaway was that I hated being there for the worst day of someone’s life, day after day, multiple times per day. I also took away one heck of a lot of respect and appreciation for police of all kinds. You deserve a lot more respect and money.

all his flashbacks in 10 min and 40 sec....

I just retired after 30 years. You were spot on brother. I experienced all this and more. We all see things you can’t unsee…….

It's so hard to have been born into the Police family, then being married to my LEO for 25 years to now having my own child an officer. It's a very tough life to live as a child of an officer, a wife and now a mother. I understand exactly what you are saying Sir and you havent Exaggerated one ounce. I feel it should be mandatory for all officers to get at minimum monthly counseling.. Stay safe

I've been typically unbiased toward cops my whole life. My brother, age 17, decided he hates cops. We are a white family with enough money to do a little more than get by. We live in a decent neighborhood with a good cop 2 roads down. Yes some cops are bad. But the media is overwhelmingly biased about showing a majority of bad cops. You and a cop from my hometown have made me realize how much you guys go through. I love you Officer 401, and thank you for your service.

Been a cop for 12 years and this is the perfect example of what is to be expected. Great Vid and be safe

Thank you so much to all the officers reading this. You men and women are the force that protects peace from chaos, and it takes quite a brave soul to do that. It's sickening to see people treat you so terribly for simply protecting the public from criminals, as officers have always done. Just remember, for every person that treats you like garbage, there are many more that love and respect you guys for the great work you do. You do so much for us, I just wish there was some way to do something for you.

I always have respect for law enforcement. Even when they were taking me away in cuffs.

Bro I'm tingling at 6:45 this is awful shit

I live in denmark and here the cops gets mandatory psychologist sessions when they have been dealing with death or other traumatic experiences. Maybe that pracsis could help the american cops as well

EMS guy here. I could not have said it better. Though you guys face many more dangerous situations, the same emotions come to mind when you speak of what people will encounter when they enter a life of public service. The glory fades and you can become a different person if you aren't careful. More people need to hear this before they jump into this career. Thanks for your service and as always, great video!

After seeing this I'm thinking "If I give a cop a hug will that make them feel a little bit better?"

haven't even watched it.. already liked it.

I saw an episode of Cops a really long time ago (maybe early 90's). The cop featured as pretty senior, a Captain I think. He was clearly suffering from burn out. They got called to a murder scene. This guy, (who had a protective order against him) had broken in and shot his wife and kids, ranging in age from about 6 to 6 months. He killed his family then himself. The cop took one look at the baby in the crib with his head blown off and just left. He left the camera crew at the scene, drove back to the station and turned in his badge. You guys see the very worst of society every day. And how often do you get to see the good side? I have no idea how you guys stay sane. "Respect" is not a strong enough word here.

God bless you young man.. Desert storm vet here that's experienced some things that are barely possible to convey. Your videos are truly needed in this toxic hateful culture we live in. Thank YOU for your service!

I know im late but i could hear the heartbreak at 5:50 when he said "now his dad is dead"

Good video. I hated traffic stops because you did not know what drunk fool will hit your patrol car or you, had it happen. Drunk drivers are drawn to flashing lights like a moth to a flame.

I work for children’s division and I am grateful everyday for the officers who serve and do the job that’s even worse than the things I see. Thanks for your service!

This is the stuff people need to hear. Thank you!

This actually got me depressed I'm Fing shaking

God it sounds horrible! Thank you for what you do. I pray for you all daily.

Thank you for your honesty and transparency. Keep safe.

This video is deep. Thanks for explaining the dark side of Law Enforcement. Love your videos! ❤️

I’m really impressed with the way you delivered this deep information. You really maintained the proper balance of reality and reward with careers and law enforcement and it’s very informative and reliable advice. Thanks!

My uncle was shot on patrol and i cant even begin to think how his friends felt after seeing him like that, thank u so much for telling people what actually happens to cops when they receive that badge

I Honestly don't know if you get this alot, but big THANKS to you man. You 100% DESERVE IT.

Heard the same stuff you said in the video when I went on a ride along with a cop during high school, he said to be prepared mentally for the job as it takes a toll on you. Currently two years away from my bachelor and after that I’m heading to the academy and will finally be in this line of work. Been watching you since high school, and just appreciate all the videos you’ve put out. You motivate me to be a great future officer, stay safe :)

I appreciate all you police officers out there

My dad was a cop, and a detective. He spoke about a lot of this to me and my sister.

the intense truth that no one will understand until they've experienced it first hand.

Really good job explaining what you and other officers do on a day to day basis and i thank all off the law enforcement officials who serve are community

This video has given me a new found respect for law enforcement and what you guys go through. Thank you for sharing and for everything you do in service to us all. - A Grateful Citizen

Officer 401 "Obviously I can't film in the dark" Me "Yes you can you film in your car ;)"

You're legitimately my inspiration to be a good Cop & Man and hopefully one day father too. You're seriously a badass to look up to.

I’m super late but thank you sir for all you do in a daily basis!!! Please be safe 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

Thank you so much for making a honest straight up video about policing. I have 2 nephews that are firemen. They too deal with many of these tough moments. I fear that it will harden them too much.

I applied for but was turned down by the Portland Police Bureau but now I'm applying to be a Multnomah County Sheriff Deputy. Wish me luck.

After this whole entire video... I still wanna be a police officer.. 110%.

You forgot to mention the never ending paper work

I still feel like I have what it takes to be a detective. The fact that I can help people in such tremendous ways and I want to protect my family and my newborn baby brother outweighs all the bad he just said.