U.S. Rep Gregory W. Meeks Statement on the Fatal NYPD Shooting of Unarmed Man in Brooklyn

U.S. Rep Gregory W. Meeks Statement on the Fatal NYPD Shooting of Unarmed Man in Brooklyn

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gregory W. Meeks released the following statement on the fatal NYPD shooting of unarmed man, Akai Gurley, in Brooklyn:

“My condolences go to Mr. Gurley's family and friends who are mourning this tragic loss of life. The circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting of Akai Gurley by an NYPD officer late Thursday night are truly troubling. Mr. Gurley was unarmed and posed no clear threat to the officers. This shooting is yet another indication that a culture of violence and excessive force exists among officers who police neighborhoods of color. I call on Mayor de Blasio and Police Commissioner Bratton to continue to be forceful in addressing the culture and manner in which the police serve and protect neighborhoods of color. By all accounts, the death of Mr. Gurley should be fully investigated and all facts must be made public. I expect that Brooklyn District Attorney, Ken Thompson, will conduct a fair and thorough investigation into this matter.”