Sometimes, when we pursue a wanted suspect, we request assistance from a K9 Unit. Their presence alone often prevents resistance, and the dog can move a lot faster if the bad guy runs. There are other times, however, when they create more problems than they solve. In the dog’s defense, it’s normally the handler’s fault.

One such incident occurred early in my career. We planned to surround a suspect’s house, arrest him, and take him to jail. Easy peasy, right? Not so fast. When we pulled into the driveway, I saw a dog chained to a pole in the front yard. The ground was disturbed in a perfect circle around the pole. It revealed the exact length of the dog’s chain, and where we needed to avoid.

I radioed the K9 Unit behind me. “There is a dog on a chain in the yard. Do not park anywhere near him!” So, the K9 Unit pulled up inside the dog’s circle, parked, and got their K9 partner out. We all know what happened next. The yard dog got angry because another canine was inside his circle. We encroached on his area, and it was about to get ugly.

I got out of the car to mitigate the upcoming fight. But it was too late. The yard dog was lunging at the K9 as the handler drew his weapon. I yelled, “Don’t shoo….” Boom! Too late. Unfortunately, the yard dog was directly between me and the K9 handler. The bullet struck the ground uncomfortably close to where I was standing. Thankfully, he missed the dog and me.

I was not happy about the events of that call, and we had a spirited discussion about it back at the office. The incident, however, perfectly illustrates how to avoid a lot of trouble in life. How to stay out of a foolish person’s circle. The Bible says, “A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” (Proverbs 22:3) I heard a similar statement recently on social media. It said, “Don’t let a fool draw you into his arena.”  

Law enforcement duties often involve dealing with knuckleheads. Some people in society are really good at causing trouble. They not only debase themselves through their behavior but also tend to bring others down with them. Avoid them. Wisdom says to steer clear of such people and avoid getting drawn into their foolish arena.

“Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.” (Proverbs 26:4)

Jesus warned that the end times will result in an increase of wickedness, such that the “love of most will grow cold.” (Matthew 24:12) It seems like we are almost there. Navigating such perilous times can be difficult. The book of Proverbs has much to say about foolish people, how not to be one, and how to deal with them wisely. It’s probably a good time to start studying it. So, if you see a yard dog on a chain, please stay out of its circle. And don’t let a fool draw you into his.