I am a retired Police Officer and a writer. I found Officer Caprarelli's book to start off not so much as slow, but rather routine. While covering his Academy days and then first years on the street, I was reading my own story, and that of thousands of other officers. It was interesting, worthwhile, but not yet compelling. That changed about as fast as the "Day of Days" did when the "lucky" patrol unit driving by the BoA put out their initial broadcast of"a possible 211 (bank robbery) in progress", after actually seeing the two suspects entering the bank loaded for bear. I perhaps could have put the book down, but I wouldn't put it down. I found myself "riding the bullet" to the last page. Well done John, both that day and then telling the story. (BTW, I was on duty that day about 30 miles southwest of North Hollywood. As Officers we had learned that a Los Angeles County police pursuit could end up anywhere. We were aware that these guys were trying to flee and that they were outgunning the LAPD. Several of us "armed up" and waited near the 405 Freeway should the incident tumble in our direction. 32 very brave LAPD Officers made sure that never happened. I salute you all). Read more
I enjoyed this book, and found the story interesting. However l felt it could have gone more in depth. The first person perspective was good but it felt short and lacking. Read more
I loved the stories. John Caprarelli is a true hero. Cops run to the danger when all others run from it. They do this for one simple reason, to protect you and me from harm. God bless our law enforcement officers and all who serve in uniform. Read more
I'm a Texas peace officer and history buff. I too was involved in a fatal officer-involved shooting in 2015 and was interestes to hear John's account of the North Hollywood Shootout. I read his book in one day but was most pleasantly surprised by the ending. I'm a devout Christian as well and have seen God work in undeniable ways throughout my life and career and I commend John for having the courage to share. Read more
I happened to learn about the this book, Uniform Decisions, from watching John Caprarelli on a television news interview. I was immediately interested with obtaining and reading this book. The first reason I too was a police officer in the Los Angeles area and served over 30 years. I recently retired. The second reason was the North Hollywood Bank of America robbery. Television captured the events from their news helicopters and a TV audience watched in horror. Two robbers, armed with fully automatic assault rifles and wearing full body armor, exchanged shots with the police. One rainy morning I sat down with a cup of coffee and started to read the book. I was unable to put the book down and subsequently finished Uniform Decisions that same day. Uniform Decisions was not just about the North Hollywood bank robbery. The book was also about John Caprarelli, his wonderful wife, the reasons he became a police officer, his early career as a LAPD officer, and the aftermath. I was so moved by this book that I went to a John Caprarelli book signing. I bought three extra copies for some of my friends at my department. I recommend this book to everyone. Read more
Not a life altering book however well written and very informative and a Quick read. Definitely recommend. Read more
Uniform Decisions is a glimpse into the mind, experience and heart of a police officer. Against the backdrop of Hollywood's hyped-up rogue mega-man, it's refreshing to read an honest account of real uniformed life on the streets nearby. Caprarelli is both protector and husband. He's both responder and father. Additionally, his personal account of the North Hollywood bank robbery was appropriately dramatic, portraying a mix of confusion in the chaos, trained response, adrenaline, and then the physical and emotional responses that followed. It was educational, entertaining and endearing. Well done! Read more
Not a bad book to read but I was definitely looking for more in depth information on the North Hollywood shoot-out. It is a worthwhile read for those interested. Read more
