Police are the peoples', via the State, enforcers given the task of keeping their communities safe and peaceful. They are given the authority to discern who is in the wrong, arrest citizens as they see fit, and use physical force when they deem necessary.
The people want someone taking this role and granted this power to be empathetic. The goals of safety and peace require it. Empathy goes beyond simply recognizing another's situation; it is putting yourself in another's shoes.
Research in psychology/neuroscience suggest varying levels of empathy in people. Some have lots, some have very little. Small capacity for empathy often results in egotistical and violent behaviors.
Law enforcement should be screened for dangerously low levels of empathy before granted any legal authority.