There are so many examples of this kind of thing happening (
The Free Thought Project) you begin to wonder what was going on before personal surveillance was available through the use of cell phones.
Back in the day in London the Metropolitan Police would give us an option of getting a kicking in the back of a Van or being arrested. I always chose the former and just took my lumps, because I took responsibility for my misbehavior (terrace violence) and it was mostly an inconvenience. They'd drive about 5 miles from the ground so you it would take enough time that you'd miss all the fun.
Those cops had a standard and an honor that I don't think exists today. Too much cynicism on both sides.