Mayor de Blasio releases video supporting DOI's report on NYPD's response to protests

Mayor Bill de Blasio released a video message Friday that supports the findings of the Department of Investigation's report on the NYPD's response to protests in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder.

News 12 Staff

Dec 18, 2020, 6:15 PM

Updated 1,388 days ago

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Mayor de Blasio releases video supporting DOI's report on NYPD's response to protests
Mayor Bill de Blasio released a video message Friday that supports the findings of the Department of Investigation's report on the NYPD's response to protests in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder.
In May, the mayor directed the DOI to conduct an independent review of the protest response.
"It's a season of reflection right now, that's what the holidays are," de Blasio said in the video. "I read this report, and I agree with it. I agree with its analysis and I agree with its recommendation, because it makes very clear we got to do something different, and we got to do something better."
The report determined that "public trust and legitimacy are essential for police to perform vital work and honor their duty to serve and protect the public."
It goes on to say that policing can be life-threatening work, and officers have the power to use force when it is needed to protect their own lives or other people's lives.
Police Commissioner Dermot Shea also reviewed the report, saying it "captured the difficult period that took place in May and June of 2020 and presents 20 logical and thoughtful recommendations that I intend to incorporate into our future policy and training."
The police commissioner also thanked the DOI for their professionalism during the investigation.
Meanwhile, Police Benevolent President Patrick J. Lynch said that the DOI report confirms what police officers knew that city leaders sent out no plan and no strategy for the rallies.
He says nearly 400 police officers were injured, struck with bricks, bottle, fire extinguishers and folding chairs because of mixed messages.
Lynch says "no amount of new training or strategizing will help while politicians continue to undermine police officers and embolden those who create chaos on our streets."