Chris Dorner was a murderer, not a martyr
By The Bakersfield Californian
If cop-turned-cop-killer Christopher Dorner had a grievance against the Los Angeles Police Department, he could have done what tens of thousands of people do when they feel they have been unfairly treated by their employers. He could have opted for any number of actions used by people in a civilized society -- from appeals to lawsuits to bringing media and public attention to his situation.
Dorner, instead, chose murder. He killed four innocent people -- police officers or people connected to police officers -- and was clearly prepared to kill many more before dying after a firefight with San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies last week.
Disturbingly, there is a growing social media chorus that thinks otherwise. They are lauding Dorner as some kind of hero, a defender against perceived injustice, racism and government oppression. A "We Stand With Christopher Dorner" page on Facebook has generated more than 25,000 likes. Another, "We Are All Chris Dorner," has nearly 4,800. Somebody is even selling a "Team Dorner" T-shirt.
Media outlets have turned to academics and psychologists to explain the mindset of someone who would see honor and heroism in Dorner's actions. We'll use one word -- pathetic. History will undoubtedly hold a place for Dorner. But he should be remembered for what he was -- a cold-blooded killer and a coward. He was neither hero nor martyr.
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