A new Justice Department report reveals that "roughly once a week, 390 times over the past eight years, Philadelphia police officers opened fire at a suspect."
That's more police shootings than occur in New York City, which is five times bigger than Philadelphia — and at least 59 of the people the police shot at were unarmed. Clearly, there is a severe problem with the way many Philadelphia officers view civilians and power.
When officers legitimately fear for their safety, they need the ability to protect themselves. Sometimes firing a gun is absolutely necessary. But not all situations are alike, and when the police can stop a suspect without using lethal force, they must do so. Yet shockingly, the New York Times reports that, "Officers are not routinely given less lethal tools like stun guns... [and Philadelphia] maintains the only police department that has more than 1,000 officers and does not offer a field training program for new officers."
Tell the Philadelphia police: Enough death! Equip your officers with Tasers and pepper spray, and give them proper field training!
Most officers are true heroes, and the Philadelphia PD has made some steps in the right direction. This report even came at the request of Commissioner Ramsey himself — but more is needed. Will you sign and share this petition for reform today?
Image: Wikipedia
