As a retired police officer I have literally taken thousands of pictures of people who relied solely on the police for their protection. More than a few of those folks were dead. Whether you like it or not, you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of everyone under your roof.
The police are very good at documenting crimes and atrocities; for 24 years I did a great job doing that. Look at the latest national crime clearance rates here:
http://www.fbi.gov/ucr/cius2007/data/table_25.html
It ain’t pretty. Even worse for urban centers. With hard times ahead it will get worse. I am stocking up on food and ammo. Not hoping for tough times – just being responsible to the people that rely on me.





