Consider This from NPR On Our Watch: Perceived Threat
Aug 8, 2021
Eric Jones, Stockton Police Chief, discusses his mission to tackle racial bias within law enforcement. He dives into the complexities of police-community relations, sparked by a troubling incident involving a young Black teen. Jones reflects on historical injustices tied to policing, stating a need for reform. He shares insights on anti-bias training and confronting the legacy of policing while addressing systemic racism in investigations. Highlighting the emotional toll on families, he advocates for accountability and understanding in police practices.
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Gas Station Altercation
- Sixteen-year-old Joseph Green was at a gas station when plainclothes Officer Robert Johnson confronted him.
- Johnson took Green to the ground, punched him, and knocked out his front teeth.
Race and Policing
- Internal affairs investigations rarely find bias, even in use-of-force cases.
- Data shows racial disparities in police violence, but departments struggle to address them.
Acknowledging History
- Stockton Police Chief Eric Jones publicly acknowledged policing's racist roots, tracing back to slave patrols.
- This admission shocked many but also resonated with some community members.