The cops’ restraint is impressive. And it’s understandable that they don’t want to arrest someone unnecessarily, inflame a volatile situation — or risk disciplinary charges for overreacting.

But letting hooligans taunt cops is asking for trouble. Provocations can escalate and end in violence. And who’ll join a force whose members can be tormented with impunity?

Most important: Disrespecting the men and women who protect the public is unhealthy on a broader scale — especially when videos of the abuse are posted online.