San Diego police are critical of two real-life superheroes who have taken to the streets to mete-out vigilante justice. While police say non-violent support is appreciated, "...physically involving yourself in crime-fighting [is] vigilantism."
Mr. Xtreme, whose identity remains secret, said, "We don't harass people, don't violate their civil rights. We do what we are allowed to do legally as citizens. First and foremost, we prevent crime."
Mr. Xtreme and his occasional cohort, Midknight, are part of an online community of comic book fans and self-proclaimed superheroes who patrol the streets of their neighborhoods. Some carry mace, pepperspray, stunguns, and even handcuffs, and they maintain their anonymity through the use of masks and costumes. While these two are localized to the San Diego region, there are "Reals" throughout America.
Each must enroll in the World Superhero Registry, create their own Spandex costume without infringing on copyrights, and shun guns and knives as part of their arsenal. While a heartening idea, Reals face Real-World dilemmas, such as when Black Owl was committed to a mental hospital! And though some police departments, such as those in Utah, appreciate the Reals' help, others say street gangs like the Crips and Bloods were borne of equally socially-minded ideologies that quickly became lost in the shuffle. But proponents say comparing the Reals to gangs like the Crips is "a real stretch." Mayor Ray Nagin even declared October 13th the Day of the Superhero in New Orleans, following the convergence of some 250 masked heroes.
In March of 2008, two registrars handed out fliers, warning citizens of a sexual predator in their neighborhood, and offering a $1000 reward for information leading to an arrest. The $1000 was from their own funds.
The San Diego Police Department asked Mr. Xtreme to leave a community meeting when he refused to remove his mask.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
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