> US sceriptwriters would have to write a proper plot for their cop dramas.

So true. As as often been pointed out, American policemen almost *never* fire at anyone. Ever. That's why it's big news when they do.

And when they do, there is an administrative review and every shot must be explained and accounted for.

Nor do I see any real-life reason to believe that US police are any more "heavy-handed" than their UK counterparts. Crime is crime, police in a democracy are police.