The New York Police Department (NYPD) and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) have reached a significant settlement regarding the NYPD's response to the Black Lives Matter protests that engulfed the city in 2020.
This historic agreement addresses several important issues, including the use of controversial crowd control methods, demonstrators' treatment, and the media's role during demonstrations.
NYPD and ACLU Addressing 2020 Black Lives Matter Protests
During the Black Lives Matter demonstrations of 2020 in New York City, the NYPD was heavily criticized for its treatment of protesters. It was reported that pepper spray, baton strikes, and bicycles were used as weapons against demonstrators.
Perhaps the most controversial tactic employed was "kettling," confining demonstrators in small areas, frequently leading to confrontations and escalation. Per NY Times, the NYPD has agreed to a series of reforms aimed at preventing a recurrence of such incidents as part of the settlement. Among the most notable terms are:
The NYPD is no longer permitted to use the controversial practice of kettling, which was a contentious issue during the protests. Limit on Helicopter Use: Additionally, "intimidating" helicopters are prohibited, preventing the NYPD from employing aerial tactics that instill fear in demonstrators.
Use of Force Restrictions: The use of force, including pepper spray, batons, and bicycle impacts, is subject to stringent restrictions. These measures are intended to ensure the demonstrators' physical safety.
NYPD's New Protest Approach Plan
A new four-tiered response system will govern the NYPD's response to protests, ensuring that the department's actions are proportional to the circumstance. The NYPD must now issue three dispersal orders before making any arrests, emphasizing the need for de-escalation and dialogue.
The settlement intends to reduce the number of police officers present at future demonstrations, altering the nature of law enforcement's interaction with protesters. Measures have been implemented to improve the treatment of journalists documenting protests, with an emphasis on media freedom and access to protest locations.
A committee of various stakeholders will be established to oversee implementing and observing the new practices. The American Civil Liberties Union, which filed the lawsuit, applauded the settlement, noting its historic significance in limiting the excessive use of force and intimidation during demonstrations.
The group emphasized that the NYPD could no longer inundate protests with officers and that the infamous Strategic Response Group (SRG) would be deployed less frequently.
Letitia James, the attorney general of New York, emphasized the significance of protecting the right to peaceful assembly and reaffirmed her dedication to ensuring that demonstrators could exercise their rights without fear of reprisal.
Civil rights advocates and legal experts lauded the settlement for introducing novel approaches to policing protests, emphasizing that it would aid in preventing the indiscriminate violence and excessive policing of demonstrations that occurred in the summer of 2020.
The settlement is part of a more significant trend, as it follows New York City's accord to pay $13 million to more than 1,000 individuals arrested during George Floyd protests in 2020.
This lawsuit, filed on behalf of demonstrators against racial injustice, focused on 18 demonstrations that erupted in the city following George Floyd's tragic death. The settlement between the NYPD and the ACLU is a significant step towards reforming law enforcement practices during New York City demonstrations.
By addressing issues such as kettling, helicopter intimidation, and using force, this agreement aims to protect demonstrators' rights and ensure a proportionate and respectful response from the police. Establishing a monitoring committee and the commitment to improve media access highlight the significance of police transparency and accountability.
As New York City continues to contend with issues of racial injustice and police accountability, this settlement represents a significant step on the path to genuine change, Daily Mail reported.
