CPR Calls for de Blasio Administration to End Contradiction on Homelessness

In response to NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton announcing that “the NYPD is working with city attorneys to reexamine laws related to how officers can enforce laws on homelessness,” Communities United for Police Reform released the following statement from spokesperson Joo-Hyun Kang.

“Commissioner Bratton’s effort to find a way to criminalize homeless New Yorkers under the law isn’t progressive or an effective way to address the housing and economic crises that create homelessness. In fact, it undermines any efforts to truly move people into permanent homes and alleviate economic inequality and is reminiscent of his illegal, failed efforts in Los Angeles. This administration can’t claim compassion for homeless New Yorkers from one side while the other side advances tools of police harassment, intimidation and oppression that perpetuate inequality. An intention to eradicate respect for the rights of New Yorkers to be free from abusive, discriminatory policing on our streets is disgraceful, and it’s time for City Hall to end the doublespeak on this issue.”

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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.

Learn more: http://changethenypd.org/
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