The long-running reality series Cops continues its ride-along tradition, taking a look at law enforcement in action. This Friday’s episode, “Out of Air,” takes viewers to Riverside County and San Bernardino, California, where deputies and officers face a range of situations, from stolen vehicles to drug busts and tense confrontations.
In Riverside County, deputies deploy spike strips to stop a stolen box truck barreling down the road. The driver, however, has a unique defense: his tires were “out of air.” Viewers can decide for themselves if this explanation holds any weight. Meanwhile, in San Bernardino, a high-speed chase leads to a dramatic foot bail on the freeway. The ensuing search turns up a firearm and a significant amount of methamphetamine, giving the San Bernardino Police Department a win. The episode also features a tense encounter with a convicted felon found in possession of cocaine and what appears to be a ghost gun. His claims of being chased and his denials of any knowledge about the contraband add another layer of complexity to the situation.
With its cinema verité approach – no narration, no staged dialogue – “Cops” presents law enforcement activity as it happens. The show, running strong since 1989, has always relied on the immediacy of the moment, leaving viewers to draw their own conclusions. “Out of Air” airs Friday, May 16th at 6:00 PM ET on Fox Nation.
