Authorizing City Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold a public hearing to consider and evaluate the issues surfacing around the Philadelphia Police Department and the conduct of its officers.

WHEREAS

,

In the last few months, there has been a rise in Police Officer conduct that is very questionable and very damaging to the reputation and integrity of the Police Department; and

WHEREAS

,

There must be clear and concise measures on the rights and responsibilities of citizens and police officers of Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS

,

It is imperative that the Police Department preserve the respect and authority it has worked so long and hard to earn; and

WHEREAS

,

The bridge between the Police Department and the Community must not be allowed to deteriorate during these hard times; and

WHEREAS

,

No matter what can be found to be the actual cause or circumstances, the current environment of violent crime, danger and fear must not be tolerated and this culture of futility, finger-pointing and resentment can not be accepted; and

WHEREAS

,

Research and experience shows that when events are properly reported: and effective programs, policy, education and training are employed, the incidence and prevalence of disastrous events in the community and the tragic events targeted towards our law enforcement may be prevented and possibly avoided; and

WHEREAS

,

Proactive measures must be taken immediately to ensure that all work cooperatively, with determination and diligence to identify, implement and reinforce any administrative, legislative or community programs, policies or actions that will help put an end to the growth of these problems, and demonstrate real response to the public's concerns; now therefore,

ResolveD, by the City Council of Philadelphia, That City Council hereby authorize City Council's Committee on Public Safety to hold a public hearing to consider and evaluate the issues surfacing around the Philadelphia Police Department and the conduct of its officers.

End