WHEREAS, The latest incidents involving the use of deadly force by law enforcement, resulting in loss of life, has drawn attention to the issue of civilian fatalities over recent weeks and months; and
WHEREAS, There is a bitter connection between these current episodes of deadly force and the escalating levels of homicides
(406 homicides last year)
, violent crime and illegal handguns in our City – as a troubling perception exists that one dangerous condition causes and fuels the other; and
WHEREAS, No matter what we find to be the actual causes or related circumstances, this environment of violent crime, danger and fear must not be tolerated and a culture of futility, finger-pointing and resentment can not be accepted; and
WHEREAS, Research and experience informs us that when effective programs, policy, education and training are employed, the incidence and prevalence of these disastrous events of community and/or law enforcement related tragedy may be prevented and possibly avoided; and
WHEREAS, We must immediately seize the moment to work cooperatively, with determination and diligence to identify, implement and reinforce any administrative, legislative or community program, policy or action that will help put an end to the virulent growth of these problems and demonstrate real response to the public’s concerns; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF PHILADELPHIA
,
That we urge the Mayor’s Office, the Police Department, City Council, the Police Advisory Board and Community Leaders to convene immediately and collectively consider every possible remedy to the unfortunate rise in the use of deadly force in Philadelphia and to subsequently make a public statement announcing all necessary steps to address this tragic issue and pledging a commitment to act without delay.
End