The Dallas Police Department Chief implemented a new policy requiring Police Officers to wait 72-Hours before providing a statement when they have shot someone. Non-police witnesses are required to give statements immediately!Although they say this is because their memories will be "more accurate" by waiting, in reality it gives them time to concoct a cover story!
This unfair policy was quietly issued after a Dallas Police Officer was videotaped shooting mentally ill suspect, Bobby Bennett for no obvious reason! The officer involved was fired.
Tell the Dallas Police Department NOT to allow its officers time to potentially make up lies! The citizens of Dallas, Texas deserve a transparent, honest system of justice!
Dear Chief Brown,
We (the undersigned) respectfully ask that you revoke your new policy of allowing officers 72 hours before submitting a statement on Officer involved shootings. Not only is it wholly unfair to citizens who do not have that privilege, but it will encourage the creation of "cover stories" that may not be accurate.
We realize that police officers have a high stress job and put their lives on the line every day, but it's important to keep the system of justice fair and honorable. They should be required to give statements as early as possible while their memories are still fresh, not days later when they've have time to worry about the consequences of their actions and be tempted to make up lies.
Sincerely,
