La Crosse asst. police chief talks how officers’ feelings have changed

Abraham was in studio Wednesday afternoon

La Crosse assistant police chief Rob Abraham opened up to us about life as an officer in the wake of police shootings and withering scrutiny from the public and media on police work.

It feels different now to be a cop, is the conclusion one could draw after listening to Abraham in the WIZM studio Wednesday afternoon.

He feels there’s a heightened sense of apprehension among police now, knowing that they could be targeted.

“In the past, pre a couple weeks ago, you knew when you came to work that you may have to put your life on the line or that you may get injured,” Abraham said. “But there’s almost this new feeling now that your life is in danger just because you put the uniform on.” 

While he appreciates the intent behind a new ‘blue lives matter’ bill introduced in Wisconsin, Abraham said he doesn’t think those willing to target police will care if their attacks could be charged as felonies with hate crime enhancements.

“It’s a nice nod,” Abraham said. “It’s a political gesture is what it is. 

“It certainly is not going to stop someone from taking a poke at us. I don’t think it’s going to prevent any crimes.”

Abraham says he’s grateful for the level of support that’s shown towards police in the La Crosse community, but that could change quickly should one of his officers make some mistake during an arrest.