DC Confirms: Do Green Lanterns Serve as Law Enforcement Officers?

The Green Lantern Corps has long been revered as a formidable organization for justice within the expansive DC Universe. A question that has persisted among fans is whether this group can truly be classified as law enforcement. Recently, writer Jeremy Adams provided insights that could settle this ongoing debate.

With an exciting new chapter emerging for the Green Lantern franchise and the highly anticipated Green Lantern Corps series on the horizon, Jeremy Adams engaged in a conversation with DC. During their discussion, he was specifically asked for his perspective on the Green Lanterns’ role and their comparison to police officers.

Jeremy Adams: I think of them more as old-time US marshals. They ride into town with a tin badge and you’re like, “Well, maybe they have authority?”

They’re kind of cops, but it’s more Star Trek-like to me. It’s more about going out, exploring, but also trying to maintain some sense of order in the universe. And that’s going to be really focused on, because I should say they’re like the cops of the Emotional Spectrum. That means they have much more responsibility now.

I do think of them as cops in some ways. It’s an easy parallel to make. But now the Guardians aren’t necessarily the governing authority, so I feel they’re more like territorial US marshals in the old West riding into town on their horses: “We’re looking for bad guys.”

The Green Lanterns: More Like Marshals Than Cops

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While fans hold a special place for the Green Lanterns, the analogy of their role as police officers can raise eyebrows. Historically, the Guardians, who established the Corps, were not elected leaders; rather, they emerged as the oldest entities in the galaxy. Adams reassures fans that the Guardians’ previous authority has diminished, allowing the Green Lanterns more autonomy. Nevertheless, they continue to operate in a capacity reminiscent of law enforcement. Thus, whether they are perceived as marshals or police, the Green Lanterns embody elements of both.

Why the Green Lantern Corps is Timeless

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Adams acknowledges the obvious similarities between the Green Lanterns and the police. However, at their core, the Lanterns are quintessential comic book heroes. While discussions regarding the legitimacy of real-world police practices may persist, the Green Lanterns are simply individuals wielding some of the most extraordinary technology in the DC Universe, dedicated to safeguarding galaxies from nefarious threats. Their identity as marshals or a police-like force does not diminish their heroism; rather, it underscores their commitment as they work to protect and enhance the DC Universe.

Source: DC

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