Statement from Chair of NYC Council Committee on Public Safety on Bias Enforcement of Social Distancing by NYPD

UsaNewsOnline.Com Desk, New York : “The bias enforcement of social distancing by NYPD is a part of a nationwide trend and conversation of the racism that some officers have toward Black and Brown Americans,” said Councilmember Donovan Richards, chair of the Committee on Public Safety. The commissioner’s decision to charge these officers has taken a step to show leadership and that NYPD officers are not exempt from being penalized when they abuse their power against unarmed citizens in our city. No abuse of power or type of excessive force should ever be tolerated by the Department. This action paves a path forward for accountability, respect for civil rights and increased public safety. Incidents like what happened to George Floyd are the reason why the Discipline Matrix is so essential in effectively combating police misconduct in an equitable way. The Mayor and Police Commissioner should work to repeal 50-a immediately if they’re serious about tangible solutions.” Press Release.