The ACLU is calling on the Federal Government to intervene in police matters in Newark. The organization claims the city is unable to “police” itself and needs the Feds to step in. The city, of course, is stating the ACLU has gone too far and their claims are unreasonable.
According to the Star Ledger, the organization is claiming that the city has had years of questionable response to police misconduct cases, citing 261 complaints of excessive force or improper arrest from 2008 to 2009, with only one of these investigations sustained. They point out one particular officer who has had 62 investigations himself, though none were sustained.
City officials question the ACLU’s logic stating the statistics they are using to petition the feds are outdated and from before the current city administration took office. “The city feels that the ACLU petition is frivolous and submitted in bad faith” says the city prosecutor.
The ACLU points out rising violent crime while the city points to overall crime drops. While the organization recognizes the city has seemed willing to work on their issues, budget cuts and crime rates have pushed such reforms lower on the list of priorities.
While the city seems reluctant to have anyone step in and make drastic changes to the way things are done, perhaps such oversight is necessary if they can’t get a handle on things alone. In addition to unresolved complaints of misconduct, the ACLU says, are 11 cops that have faced criminal charges within recent years, 9 of which who are still with the force.
If the cops are no more law abiding than the people they are arresting why should communities have faith in them? Lack of confidence in police is a troublesome matter across the country, but when you have officers potentially getting away with more than they should, that problem is exacerbated.
Many people within Newark are frightened of the police. Even if they’ve done nothing wrong, an encounter with police can make their palms sweat and their heart race. Often times this very fear is to blame for such things as evading arrest or fleeing the scene.
When you are facing potential criminal charges, it’s normal to be uneasy. From the moment that police make contact, you know the potential for jail time is there and can only hope your case will be handled fairly within the system.
A certified criminal trial attorney can help—by ensuring your rights are protected at every stage of the process. If you are facing criminal charges, contact me today for a free consultation.