foremost, you started the comment of someone not knowing about the law, history, or custom. I never stated that you weren't aware -- I just simply countered that I am aware.
second, I never claimed that anyone's rights were trampled on. From the beginning, I noted that they were asking and receiving permission -- which essentially states that there's no violation here (and no exigent circumstances either).
My only question is to the mindset of why the individual citizens seemed so cool with it all. I'm not entirely comfortable with that reaction (from the citizenry).
third, i was focusing specifically on "looks like" a police state. I reiterated that the photos of an empty city, police going door to door asking to search "looks like" a police state. I also agree that there are other things that are far more concerning and actual "police state-y" things happening all around that need more attention.
which also points back to -- why are citizens doing what they are doing? how are they making these sorts of decisions?
finally, inflammatory (haha!) comparisons are unnecessary.