RECENT EVENTS OF POLICE BRUTALITY

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This article is written by Monalisha Jana of Adamas University, School of law and justice

ABSTRACT

The present study experimentally investigated about police brutality event. Police brutality is a brutal act. Illegal detention, killing someone and beating, custodial rape is unlawful. In this study I discussed about some of the recent event where police brutality happened. How the police are using there powers to do some illegal work that violate human rights. And also what are the systemic issue. All officer is not engaged in misconduct major number of officers doing their duty dedicatedly.

KEYWORDS: –

police brutality, black live matter, police violence, excessive use of force, police corruption.

INTRODUCTION: –

Police brutality is excessive and unwanted use of force by law enforcement to individual or group of people. It involves actions such as physical assault, verbal abuse, racial profiling, unjustified shootings, and other forms of misconduct. These actions can result in serious injuries, loss of life, and violations of individuals’ civil rights. The issue of police brutality has gained significant attention in recent years, sparking widespread protests, calls for reform, and discussions about systemic racism and inequality within the criminal justice system. Most of the police brutality in the early twentieth and end of the nineteenth centuries was officially sanctioned, aimed at undermining labor actions or controlling working-class labor. Police brutality is a global problem and needs a global solution. These incidents have sparked widespread protests, calls for police reform, and conversations about systemic racism and inequality within the criminal justice system. Discussing about police brutality issue help to develop critical thinking and its raises awareness, hold law enforcement accountable, address racial injustice, empower communities and shape public opinions.

OBJECTIVE: – Some recent event of police brutality

George Perry Floyd Jr. (14/10/1973 – 25/5/2020): –

George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was arrested by Minneapolis police officers after a convenience store employee suspected him of using a counterfeit twenty-dollar bill and called the police. Moments later, a police car arrived, arresting Floyd and placing Floyd on the ground with his cheek. The officer Chauvin knelt on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes, despite Floyd’s pleas that he could not breathe. After combining videos from bystanders and security cameras of arrested situation shows that officers taking a series of actions that violated the policies of the Minneapolis Police Department. Chauvin continued to apply pressure on Floyd’s neck even after he became unresponsive. Floyd’s death was ruled a homicide due to “cardiopulmonary arrest complicating law enforcement subdual, restraint, and neck compression.”

The video of Floyd’s arrest and subsequent death went viral, sparking widespread outrage and protests across the United States and around the world. People took to the streets to demand justice for Floyd and an end to systemic racism and police brutality. Mr. Chauvin was arrested on 29^thmay and charged with third degree murder. After a weeks long trial, On April 20, 2021, Mr. Chauvin was found guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder.

Floyd’s death has had an impact on the Black Lives Matter movement. It became a catalyst for the revival of the Black Lives Matter movement. It has renewed discussions on racial discrimination, police violence and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the criminal justice system. The movement gained significant momentum, with millions participating in demonstrations, advocating for change and pushing for systemic reform.

Jacob S. Blake (August 23, 2020): –

Jacob Blake, a 29-year-old African American man, was shot by a police officer in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The incident occurred when officers responded to a domestic dispute. According to witnesses and video footage, Blake was seen walking away from the officers towards his vehicle when an officer fired multiple shots, striking Blake in the back. Blake had an arrest warrant based on charges of third-degree sexual assault, trespassing, and disorderly conduct for domestic abuse in May, warrant was pending from July. police were aware of this warrant when they got a report about a stolen car against Blake. The shooting of Jacob Blake was captured on video by a witness and it showed that Blake being shot in the back at close range, while his three children were in the vehicle. Blake survived but he was left paralyzed from the waist down.

The shooting video of Jacob Blake sparked renewed protests and discussions on police violence, racial injustice, and the need for police reform. Demonstrations took place in Kenosha and across the country, with protesters demanding justice for Blake and an end to police brutality. The shooting of Jacob Blake sparked renewed protests and discussions on police violence, racial injustice, and the need for police reform.

Blake’s case has raised questions about the use of force by law enforcement officers. Many argued that the shooting was unnecessary and excessive, citing the need for stricter guidelines and training on the use of force.

P Jayaraj and Bennicks custodial death: –

On 19^th June 2020 in Tamil Nadu 59 years old Jayaraj and his son 31 years old Bennicks were arrested for violating COVID-19 lockdown regulations. They were taken into custody by the Sathankulam police in the Thoothukudi district. They were tortured and sexually assaulted by the police while in custody. On 22 June 2020, they were admitted to a hospital where Benniks died the same day his father also died.

The case gained significant media attention, and an investigation was launched. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took over the case, and several police officers were arrested and charged with various offenses, including murder. On social media #JusticeForJayarajAndBennicks started trending. After the case gained publicity the district police suspended SI Balakrishnan and Raghu Ganesh and police constables Murugan and Muthuraj, against whom strong allegations have been raised.

The custodial deaths of Jayaraj and Bennicks highlighted the issue of police brutality in India and led to calls for police reform and stricter accountability measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Tyre Nichols (January 7, 2023): –

Nichols was a 29-year-old Black man who was beaten by Memphis police officers during a traffic stop. Nichols was 2 minutes way from his home when he was stopped by Memphis police officer where they punched him kicked him and paper spraying on him. he was hospitalized in critical condition and died three days later. The officer reported that for reckless driving they stopped Nichols. But department had reviewed camera footage from police body cameras and could not find any evidence of probable cause for the traffic stop.

Five police officers who assaulted Nichols were discharged from Memphis police officers. and they were arrested charged with various felonies, including second-degree murder. The case has sparked state and federal investigations into police brutality, as well as a lawsuit filed by the Nichols family against the officers and the city of Memphis. The killing of Tyre Nichols is one of the most egregious examples of police misconduct, and it highlights the urgent need for police accountability and reform.

SYSTEMIC ISSUES AND CALLS FOR REFORM: –
One critical aspect of police reform is addressing racial biases within law enforcement. International human right law strictly prohibited discrimination in all forms. No one can be discriminated on the basis of Race, sex, caste etc. people from different communities experience racial profiling. Police reform involves implementing bias training programs, diversifying police departments, and promoting community policing strategies that build trust between law enforcement and marginalized communities.
Holding law enforcement officers accountable for their actions is crucial. This includes establishing independent oversight bodies, strengthening civilian review boards, and ensuring that officers who engage in misconduct face appropriate disciplinary measures, including criminal charges when warranted. police officers should be accountable public servants who work transparently, collaboratively, and fairly with all of the communities. police contract authority is authorized to investigated any type of misconduct complaints against any police officer.
Community-led policing models emphasize collaboration between law enforcement and community members. Community-oriented police structures focus on assigning officers to a specific area. These officers encourage the community and give them advice to prevent crime. Increased bicycle petrol. This involves engaging community organizations, implementing restorative justice practices, and involving residents in decision-making processes regarding public safety. It aims to build trust, improve communication, and prioritize community needs.

According to Investigative Journalism at the University of Maryland after the death of Floyd’s States collectively approved nearly 300 police reform bills. Police brutality and systemic racism is ongoing, and it is crucial to continue advocating for change, engaging in dialogue, and supporting efforts to create a more just and equitable society.

ACKNOWLEDGING THE MAJORITY OF POLICE OFFICERS: –

It is important to acknowledge that the majority of police officers are dedicated individuals who uphold their duty to protect and serve their communities. It would be unfair to generalize all officers based on the actions of a few. Police officers play a crucial role in maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and protecting communities. They often put their lives on the line to keep us safe and deserve recognition and appreciation for their efforts.
Not all officer engaged in misconduct. The actions of a few should not be used to characterize the entire profession. The majority of police officers are dedicated professionals who carry out their duties with integrity, respect, and a commitment to serving and protecting their communities.
It is important to appreciate the efforts of dedicated officers. It reinforces their commitment to their work and encourages them to continue serving their communities with dedication and professionalism. When officers feel valued and appreciated, they are more likely to stay in their positions, reducing turnover rates. When officers are recognized for their dedication and commitment, it enhances the community’s perception of the police force as a whole.
The majority of dedicated officers should not overshadow the need for changes within law enforcement culture. Implementing mechanisms for reporting, investigating, and addressing misconduct can help rebuild trust between law enforcement and the community. Addressing biases and discriminatory practices within law enforcement is crucial. Training programs that focus on cultural competency, implicit bias, and de-escalation strategies can help officers understand and challenge their own biases, leading to fair and equitable treatment for all individuals. Enhancing transparency and communication between law enforcement agencies and the public is essential. This can involve initiatives such as releasing information on use of force incidents, engaging in community forums, and establishing mechanisms for feedback and accountability.

The need for changes within law enforcement culture arises from the importance of accountability, addressing biases and discrimination, promoting community-oriented policing, prioritizing officer mental health, and improving transparency and communication.

Conclusion: –

Police brutality is one of the horrible crimes. The increase number of police brutality case is a concern of human right violation that require immediate action. It is a serious issue that need to addressed. It can be caused by lack of training, racism and a lack of accountability. It effects physically and psychologically on victims. And it leads to a decrease in public trust in law enforcement. It is important to acknowledge that the majority of police officers are dedicated professionals who uphold the law, it is crucial to hold accountable those who abuse their power. Police departments must implement comprehensive training programs, improve oversight mechanisms, and establish clear guidelines on the use of force to prevent instances of brutality. It is only through collective efforts and systemic changes that we can work towards a society where everyone feels safe and protected by those who are meant to serve and protect. There needs to be a clear review of existing laws and a thorough investigation is crucial to safeguard the rule of law in India and protect citizens from police brutality.

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