Yonkers Insider: Statement from Yonkers City Council, Minority Leader, Mike Breen, 5th District.

Friends,

I wanted to send a note to say how proud I am of our City and its residents. When an injustice is done, Yonkers stands up. When changes are needed, Yonkers leads.

I fully support those that choose to march and protest peacefully. That is what makes our Country the best in the world. Seeing our young people participating in organizing these marches and rallies shows us that we have bright futures.

Unfortunately, there have been people who have come from outside of Yonkers to try and take advantage of its businesses and residents. We know that those driving a stolen car into a jewelry store in order to burglarize it are not part of the protestors for justice. We know that those breaking into a pharmacy to steal controlled substances are not part of the protestors for justice. We know that taunting and throwing things at police in hopes they will react with a goal of inciting a riot is not a part of the protestors for justice. Simply put, they are criminals and their actions will not be tolerated.

I have two children and a son in law who proudly serve in the Yonkers Police Department. I have always been, and continue to be, a supporter of Law Enforcement and those that put their life on the line every day they clock in. However, I will never support someone who has taken the oath to protect and serve and does not stay true to that oath. The four former police officers who caused the death of George Floyd while he was begging for his life must be held accountable. Simply put, they too are criminals and their actions will not be tolerated. I have yet to speak to a police officer who feels differently.

I started this note by saying I'm proud of our City, and I am. I know that this is the beginning of change and I'm proud that our residents are leading the charge.

MIke Breen, Yonkers City Council - Minority Leader, 5th District.