To the Editor:
Police brutality in Connecticut is a problem rarely discussed, but its ramifications are tragic and heartbreaking. In the past five years, there have been 21 use of force deaths, yet none of the officers involved have been charged with any crimes in relation to the deaths. In 2020 alone, 3 out of 4 police-related deaths were Black or Latinx men.
Kids as young as 15 are subject to police violence based on their race, and the people meant to protect them are failing them. Black lives matter and no one, regardless of the crime committed, deserves to lose their life in this way.
A new police accountability bill has been introduced and will be voted on during the special session. This bill is incredibly important, as it supports police reform in Connecticut. The bill dictates that officers will receive compulsory implicit bias training and mental health screenings. It will also reduce access to military-style equipment and mandate the use of body cameras. This will ensure the safety of our community and stop unnecessary deaths by police officers.
This police accountability bill is the first step on a longer road to justice, but it’s an important step. I encourage you to read about this bill and submit testimony to ensure it gets passed. To submit a written testimony, please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
Ruby Coleman
Westport
