DUNSTABLE — Chief James W. Dow and the men and women of the Dunstable Police Department condemn the actions of the Minneapolis Police officers which resulted in the death of George Floyd last week.
“The actions we saw in Minneapolis last week are indefensible and incomprehensible, and showed complete disregard to the sanctity of human life,” Chief Dow said. “Like so many across the world, I am appalled by the actions and in-actions of these four police officers, and join those demanding that the officers be held accountable for their failure to uphold their most basic obligation to protect human life.”
Police departments and their officers across Massachusetts have thoroughly embraced the six pillars of the principles embodied in the final report of President Barack Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, and remain committed to professional conduct, democratic policing and procedural justice for all people. This includes training sessions on crucial topics such as de-escalation techniques, mental health, diversity and inclusion, fair and impartial policing, procedural justice and police legitimacy.
Massachusetts police officers are not trained to apply pressure to the neck or throat. Officers are trained only to use the amount of force necessary to ensure safety for the suspect, the officers, and civilians in the area.
“We understand there is work to be done, and we remain committed to adopting and following the best practices so that we can continue to carry out duties fairly and impartially,” Chief Dow said. “We need to be role models whose actions do not foster fear or mistrust of law enforcement. Acts like this can shake, if not destroy, the trust community members have in their police department and we will continue to work each and every day to show our dedication to the safety and well being of all Dunstable residents.”
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