So you have to resort to hypotheticals to make your point. That sorta proves you've lost.

> I value liberty more than punishment

Putting your thumb on the scales and misstating the question. It's not about "punishment" -- it's safety. Yes, fear of punishment does dissuade some criminals from preying on victims.

And you've just admitted why NYC'ers broadly support stop-and-frisk: because they're "scared", too. As if that's something to be ashamed of.

As for "if you don't expect to get caught in it" -- you're right, I don't look like a mugger. You probably don't, either.