Contact: Mandela Jones 646.214.1031 press@changethenypd.org

CPR Responds to DA Thompson’s Sentencing Recommendation

In response to Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson recommending that Peter Liang only face house arrest, probation and community service after being convicted on felony manslaughter charges for killing Akai Gurley, Communities United for Police Reform released the following statement from spokesperson Monifa Bandele.

“DA Thompson’s sentencing recommendation for Peter Liang is disappointing, an abdication of justice, and sends the wrong message, once again demonstrating the double standard police officers who violate the law face compared to civilians. It contradicts his previously expressed commitment to uphold justice for all people in Brooklyn, and this preferential treatment that reduces accountability for fatal crimes committed by police officers contributes to the continued unjust killings and brutality by police in our communities. Thompson’s recommendation once again demonstrates that there is no equal justice, and further exemplifies why a special prosecutor is essential for police killings. District attorneys have historically been unwilling to complete the task in these cases, failing to equally hold police officers accountable to the law – DA Thompson showed he is part of that failure.”

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About Communities United for Police Reform: Communities United for Police Reform (CPR) is an unprecedented campaign to end discriminatory policing practices in New York, and to build a lasting movement that promotes public safety and policing practices based on cooperation and respect– not discriminatory targeting and harassment. CPR brings together a movement of community members, lawyers, researchers and activists to work for change. The partners in this campaign come from all 5 boroughs, from all walks of life and represent many of those unfairly targeted the most by the NYPD. CPR is fighting for reforms that will promote community safety while ensuring that the NYPD protects and serves all New Yorkers.