[WardFive] Statement on President Trump's Comments Endorsing Law Enforcement Police Officer Brutality

Statement on President Trump's Comments Endorsing Law Enforcement Police Officer Brutality

 

“When you see these towns and when you see these thugs being thrown into the back of a paddy wagon, you just see them thrown in, rough, and I said, ‘Please don’t be too nice.” “Like when you guys put somebody in the car and you’re protecting their head, you know, the way you put their hand over, like, don’t hit their head and they’ve just killed somebody, don’t hit their head, I said, ‘You can take the hand away, OK?’” – President Donald Trump

 

During an appearance before an assembly of law enforcement officers yesterday, Friday, July 28, 2017, President Trump condone police officer brutality upon people they encounter in the exercise of their official duties.  

 

President Trump’s comments are offensive, dangerous, reckless and should be roundly condemned.

 

As Chairman Emeritus of the 5^th District Citizen’s Advisory Council and member of Chief’s Chief Citizen’s Advisory Council, I respect and honor the sacrifice of law enforcement officers who place themselves in danger to protect residents and visitors of the District of Columbia. 

 

The history of discriminatory and racist law enforcement in the District of Columbia is not too far in the distant past to be forgotten.  As an African American male growing up in the District of Columbia I can bear witness to law enforcement misconduct.  Today, I applaud the efforts of our local officials and community members who have worked hard and valiantly together to build trust between District citizens and the DC Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).  Community policing works and helps to promote citizen confidence in law enforcement and judicial due process.

 

On Tuesday, August 1, 2012, MPD and District residents will come together in solidarity with Americans across the country for a “National Night Out.” I urge all District residents and officers to remain committed to the principles of human dignity and respect for every person.

 

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Robert Vinson Brannum

Member, Chief’s Citizen’s Advisory Council

President Emeritus, DC Federation of Civic Associations, Inc.

Former President, Bloomingdale Civic Association, Inc.

Chairman Emeritus, 5^th District Citizens’ Advisory Council, Inc.

Chairman Emeritus, Ward 5 Democratic Committee

Former Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

@robert158