Danger in Power

“Every man is guilty of all the good he did not do.” –Voltaire

The story of Florida’s sheriffs indicates that, while power can ensure peace and justice, wielding too much power can be dangerous.  Confident in their elevated office, some officials simply chose to ignore their responsibilities or failed to serve each member of their constituency equally, especially where race was involved. Others abused their authority to carry out their own agendas.  Their influence within the community often allowed erring sheriffs to avoid the penalties of working outside the law.  Though not the majority, enough lawmen were accused of misconduct to force legislators to reconsider the authority bestowed on the office.