Boy (noticing the camera):
Yo—why are you recording us?
Officer (calmly, but firm):
Just doing my job. Making sure everything stays safe out here.
Boy (defensive, standing up):
Safe from what? We’re sitting here talking. We’re not bothering anyone.
Girl (quietly, concerned):
Just let it go…
Boy (ignoring her, louder):
No, it’s weird! You’re recording us like we’re criminals or something. You didn’t ask. You didn’t say anything. That’s not right, man.
Officer (coolly):
You’re in a public space. I don’t need permission to record. It’s standard procedure.
Boy (angrily):
Nah. It’s not “standard” to treat people like suspects for sitting and talking. We’re not a threat—we’re just kids.
Officer (pausing, sensing tension):
I didn’t mean any disrespect. Just making sure nothing’s going on.
Boy (pointing):
Then talk to us like humans. Don’t just point a camera like we’re a problem. That’s what makes people stop trusting you.
(There’s a pause. The officer slowly lowers the phone or deactivates the camera. The energy shifts.)
Officer (more sincerely):
You’re right. I should’ve approached you differently. That’s on me.
Boy (still upset, but calmer):
Yeah. It is.
