http://news.yahoo.com/justice-department-tells-ferguson-police-stop-wearing-bracelets-004135604.html
The Justice Department sent a letter to Ferguson cops this week after federal investigators saw many Ferguson cops wearing 'us-versus-them' bracelets and concealing their identities while on duty and in uniform. See the article in the link above. Among other things, the Justice Department said the bracelets had upset and agitated people and reinforce the very 'us versus them' mentality that many residents of Ferguson believe exists. The Justice Department also said, "The failure to wear name plates conveys a message to community members that, through anonymity, officers may seek to act with impunity."
Just like the bad guys, cops who anticipate violating the law (such as using excessive force or making unlawful arrests, etc.) will want to reduce their risk of being identified and held accountable.
