As our nation continues to address serious concerns involving the tragic death of Tyre Nichols by Memphis Police Officers, I share in the opinion that Local, State and Federal Criminal Justice Systems along with the Memphis Police Department took swift and necessary actions acknowledging the use of harsh and deadly force by police officers causing the death of Tyre Nichols. I have continuously supported efforts to encourage and implement greater Police-Community Dialogue and in expanding law enforcement training in crises and de-escalation skills.
After the George Floyd death by similar circumstances; I took actions to initiate positive solutions. I have provided special funding in State Grants to the Yonkers Police Department for Integrating Communications, Assessment, and Tactics (ICAT) De-Escalation Training. These are multi-day sessions in which over 600 Yonkers Police Officers are given Special Training helping them acquire skills to better deal with crises situations. For example, I funded a program on how to de-escalate an emotionally charged situation involving residents with mental health challenges. I am also looking into programs that help law enforcement better communicate with motorists on the autism spectrum. To help Yonkers maintain its ranking as one of the nation’s safest large cities, I will continue to support increased funding for violence prevention teams working in our community, as well as funding youth after school and summer-employment programs.
Finally, we must continue to do the work that bridges those challenges that divide us by encouraging more dialogue, trust and respect between our Community and Law Enforcement. I will soon sponsor legislative efforts to encourage and fund de-escalation training for police departments throughout New York State.
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