Baltimore County-
Jewish tradition teaches that “One must not stand idly by while your neighbor’s blood is shed” (Leviticus 19:16). Millions of us have witnessed the life of George Floyd end beneath the knee of a police officer as fellow officers stood by and ignored pleas to intervene, just one recent death in a long line of Black people abused and killed by police officers across this country — including right here in Baltimore County.
County Councilmember Julian Jones has introduced bill #73-20 to hold Baltimore County police accountable to the community, restrict use of force, and to make sure that officers who do the right thing are protected from retaliation.
JUFJ leaders submitted public testimony in support of this bill during the County Council work session on Tuesday, 7/28. Watch below to learn why JUFJ leader Barbara Cohen supports this bill.
Hello, my name is Barbara Cohen. I am a longtime resident of Baltimore County. I strongly support Councilman Jones’ bill #73-20. I’m very worried about violent exchanges between police and citizens. I support the bill because it addresses much needed reforms for improved trainings, continuing education, transparency and accountability of our officers, and protection for those who report misconduct and extreme use of force. I think the bill will promote improved public safety and more trust between the police and the community. This is something that we really need – additional trust between police and the citizens. Thank you very much for your time.
