Congresswoman Velazquez and Council Member Menchaca Joint Statement on Footage of Alleged Uniformed Aggression in Sunset Park

"We are incredibly disturbed by the images depicted in a video that was recently released by El Grito De Sunset Park that depicts the use of excessive force by on-and-off-duty uniformed individuals--including some members of the New York City Police Department.

"The video shows an immediate rush to aggressive force against a seemingly unarmed male suspect inside a local bodega in Sunset Park. Without hesitation--we join the call for a thorough and transparent investigation of these incidents by the Brooklyn District Attorney and Inspector General, and the immediate temporary suspension of any involved officers. As elected officials and as a community, we are left with many concerns and questions that must be answered.

"Even after the measurable progress we have made in Sunset Park with our local precinct this summer, this type of footage continues as commonplace in our neighborhood--it's business as usual. We stand with our local residents and El Grito in demanding action from the highest brass of the police department, and the immediate removal of these bad apples.
"We've had enough.

"Our offices will continue to be engaged with the investigative agencies and with community groups to ensure the proper handling of this, and the multiple cases before us.

"We have to do better".

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