To Serve and Protect Whom?

Last week I wrote:

According to this stunning account local law enforcement officials prevented refugees, at gun point, from leaving New Orleans and then stole their food and water to boot.

The story seemed so incredible that I cautioned readers but the Washington Post is now verifying the main account:

A suburban police chief is defending himself against accusations of racism for ordering the blockade of a bridge and turning back desperate hurricane victims... Police Chief Arthur Lawson Jr. ordered officers to block a bridge leading into the community [of Gretna], which is almost two-thirds white. New Orleans is two-thirds black.

Thanks to Robin Hanson for the pointer.