Divided Thin Blue Line

This episode contains strong language.

As a police officer in his hometown of Flint, Mich., Scott Watson has worked to become a pillar of the community, believing his identity has placed him in a unique position to do his job. He has given out his cellphone number, driven students to prom and provided food and money to those who were hungry.

After watching the video of the killing of George Floyd, his identity as a Black police officer became a source of self-consciousness instead of pride.

Today, we speak to Mr. Watson about his career and the internal conflicts that have arisen from his role.

Guest: Scott Watson, a Black police officer in Flint, Mich.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily

Background reading:

• Many Black and Hispanic officers in New York City have found themselves caught between competing loyalties in the wake of the killing of George Floyd.

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