Let's Stop "Stop Snitching"

The "Stop Snitching" culture has gotten out of control.  Music videos, movies, television shows, and music have, over the last several years, fostered the myth that to tell truth is to be a snitch, and to be a snitch is the worst thing to be.  I  can quickly think of a dozen movies that strongly promote an "anti-snitch" ideal.  Today people who cooperate with police are snitches.  They used to be called rats, stool pigeons, or narcs.  All of these labels are meant to dishonor those who cooperate with police.  In fact, I can't think of much that is more honorable than cooperating with the law.  Its what we're supposed to do. 

But where does "stop snitching" leave law enforcement?  The bottom line is that when the police investigate crimes, we need witnesses.  That's how the system works.  When witnesses refuse to cooperate, bad guys get away with their bad doings.  When witnesses don't cooperate, whether due to a threat, perceived threat, or simply fear of cooperating, the cycle continues.  To me, those who intimidate witnesses and those who promote the "stop snitching" myth are cowards, plain and simple.