11 Jan, 2016 18:32

Twitter uses #IfIWereACop hashtag to take jabs at law enforcement

#IfIWereACop is trending, and it is providing equal parts humor, wish fulfillment and social commentary to Twitter users.

Twitter account @WorldOfHashtags created the hashtag as its part of its weekly event.

This week's @WorldOfHashtags hosted by @AndyHashtagger is #IfIWereACop 👮🏻🚔🔫
— World Of Hashtags (@WorldOfHashtags) January 11, 2016

Many took the opportunity to criticize police, accusing them of being unaccountable and behaving violently toward innocent suspects, particularly minorities.

#IfIWereACop I wouldn't fear anything pic.twitter.com/JYHaRBQY1r
— Christian Morgan (@ChrixMorgan) January 11, 2016

#IfIWereACop I'd be fired and blackballed from the department within the first week for whistleblowing.
— Matt Manzella (@MatManz) January 11, 2016

#IfIWereACop I'd probably have to shoot myself... I'm a minority.
— Matt Huisenga (@McMexicans) January 11, 2016

Others expressed their support for police officers, noting arising from situations on the job and from the current climate of public scrutiny.

#IfIWereACop #BlueLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/QCY0liPWGp
— † Samuel كافر حربي (@ChestnutPrince) January 11, 2016

#IfIWereACop I probably wouldn't get enough respect for putting my life on the line
— Harriet Clare (@harrietclare321) January 11, 2016

Though the entertainment value of the social media phenomenon was eclipsed by tweets demonstrating allegiances to political causes, some users tweeted from a lighter angle. Perhaps ignoring the rigors and responsibilities of the position, many users tweeted about their fantasy scenarios they’d like to have as cops.

#IfIWereACop I would confiscate all of your weed, and hotbox the cruiser.
— JAMES DANKO (@Dick_Nouglass) January 11, 2016

#IfIWereACop I would demand free donuts from all stores. Just kidding, Id just ask for a discount on them.🍩🍩🍩
— Shane Hemmings (@shanefrazier13) January 11, 2016

Others just played the hashtag for laughs.

#IfIWereACop I'd arrest you goons that give your real names to the Starbucks drones. "Blurg, your latte is ready".. pic.twitter.com/BDxRL6YYwn
— Rupert X (@RealRupertX) January 11, 2016

#IfIWereACop I would let these guys go so that they won't be a bad influence for the other prisoners pic.twitter.com/a3AcwBlN9h
— Nahom Wondwossen (@NahomWondwossen) January 11, 2016