Monday, October 5, 2015

NYPD investigated for excessive force - Kate Fehan 8th Period

A recent report shows that 67% of police officers have not been disciplined properly for using excessive force. Many of the officers aren't being disciplined at all, and this report isn't including incidents that lead to death and cases of excessive force that weren't reported. Many of the officers escalated the situation and made it worse with uncalled for violence. In response to the complaints, the New York City Police Commissioner has issued new guidelines, demanding all uses of force be documented. A civilian-run organization has been set up to look into police complaints.

The NYPD has been facing accounts of recorded police brutality since the late 1800's. Just like today, cases were printed in newspapers, but little could be done about it. In the 1900's, independent commissions were formed to investigate corruption in the police and government. In most cities now, these commissions no longer exist and police stations are left to conduct investigations of themselves. I believe setting new guidelines and establishing something outside of the police to investigate is important. It's been made clear that many police stations are unable or unwilling to discipline officers properly, so committees that aren't linked to the police will help keep them from excusing officers' actions.

4 comments:

  1. I feel like this is way over due. I guess I am glad that it's happening, but I'm still kind of bothered that it took them this long and they still haven't done anything to make a definite change.

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  2. There have been an unnecessary amount of cases of police brutality lately. I think it is about time that there are new guidelines set to ensure further safety of people.
    -Victoria Garza

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  3. Tristin Manus 8th ---Finally someone is taking initiative in this police brutality behavior. This problem needs to be fixed and I'm glad that it is now being enforced.

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  4. This along with the use of body cam and other means can help reduce problems with police using excessive force. It's bittersweet to think that the people who are supposed to be protecting against violence are having to be monitored to prevent just that, but as long as these measure are taken police forces can hopefully start focusing on other external problems.

    -Kiyanna Elliott

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