FILE (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
New York Attorney General Letitia James proposed in a press conference on Friday new police reform aimed at the “unjustified and excessive use of force”.
The proposed law, dubbed the “Police Accountability Act”, will mandate that police officers take into account use of force as a last resort. The law will also establish new penalties for officers who use force that is “grossly in excess of what is warranted in an interaction with civilians”.
“For far too long, police officers in this country have been able to evade accountability for the unjustified use of excessive and lethal force,” said Attorney General James in a press conference. “In New York, our laws have essentially given police blanket defense to use force in interactions with the public, making it exceedingly difficult for prosecutors to go after officers who have abused this power. Not only is that gravely unjust, but it has also proven to be incredibly dangerous.”
For too long, police officers have been able to evade accountability for the unjustified use of excessive and lethal force.
Today, I'm introducing the Police Accountability Act, which seeks to change New York law and strengthen prosecutors’ ability to hold officers accountable.
— NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) May 21, 2021
The law also seeks to get rid of justification for lethal force when an officer only suspects someone is involved in criminal conduct. In addition, the law will allow prosecutors to consider whether an officer’s conduct created a substantial risk where force isn’t necessary. The law states that charges would depend on the severity of the injuries caused.
The proposed law is being supported by a number of state and local officials.
“The use of excessive force by police officers has not only taken loved ones and family members, but is also a continuous scourge for our communities,” said State Senator Jamaal Bailey. “The Police Accountability Act will make it clearly understood that the state of New York will not tolerate individuals in law enforcement who deviate from the mission of protecting and serving and instead attempt to incorrectly take justice into their own hands.”
