Instead of demonizing the police or rejecting important voices in the community, actually listening to folks on the ground will help build consensus around increasing accountability and transparency while empowering law enforcement to do their jobs, U.S. Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY) tweeted on Oct. 14 following a local law enforcement roundtable he hosted in New York.
The event was held to provide police agencies from across the region and local leaders with the opportunity to speak openly about the safety and policing challenges facing their communities.
“We deeply value all of the input we heard today and appreciate all those who participated because these forums help us champion the effective solutions,” said Rep. Reed, co-chairman of the congressional Problem Solvers Caucus. “We will continue to work in the House and with our Senate partners on bipartisan legislation that addresses the problems at hand without hurting police agencies’ ability to keep our communities safe.”
The event was attended by local officials, various heads of police agencies, and leaders from the local NAACP chapter. After brief opening remarks, the group discussed common-ground reforms and other opportunities to promote positive change, according to a statement provided by Rep. Reed’s office.
Elmira-Corning Branch NAACP President Georgia Verdier said the law enforcement roundtable was thought-provoking and effective.
“It provided an opportunity for us to dialogue on matters that impact us all. I believe, if we are to find solutions to issues involving law enforcement and the community, it must begin with mutual respect, which can inspire all of us to be the best that we can be,” Verdier said. “I believe the meeting laid a foundation that we can build upon.”
“It’s important to collectively discuss issues and potential solutions with other law enforcement executives, lawmakers and members of the public,” added Schuyler County (N.Y.) Sheriff William Yessman.
Other attendees included New York State Sen. Tom O’Mara; Assemblyman Christopher Friend; Elmira, N.Y. Mayor Dan Mandel; William Schrom, Chemung County (N.Y.) Sheriff; Jim Allard, Steuben County (N.Y.) Sheriff; Elmira Police Chief Joseph Kane; Rick Churches, Elmira Heights (N.Y.) Police Chief; Jeffrey Spaulding, Corning (N.Y.) Police Department Chief; Thomas Stickler, Horseheads (N.Y.) Police Chief; and Dr. Jimmie Williams, first vice president of the Elmira-Corning Branch NAACP.