FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida — The Fort Lauderdale Police Department Internal Affairs released a report yesterday
regarding police officers who were the subject of an internal investigation regarding racially charged exchanges. In light of these developments, the NAACP Florida State Conference and NAACP Ft. Lauderdale/Broward Branch has released the following statement.
From Adora Nweze, President, Florida NAACP State Conference:
“This report proves that some Fort Lauderdale police officers have been routinely engaging in racially discriminatory behavior and cannot be trusted to serve and protect all citizens. The Florida State Conference will not delay in taking immediate, wholesale and structural corrective action to transform this police department into a fairer and more just entity. While a thorough and comprehensive investigation by the Justice Department must take place, this report and the removal of the officers involved in racist behavior is a strong first step. The NAACP Florida State Conference will continue to work tirelessly to bring about justice for all Florida residents.”
From Marsha Ellison, President, Broward County Branch NAACP:
“Today’s report released by the Fort Lauderdale Police Department is a painful reminder of our city’s flawed criminal justice system and it underscores why serious reform is sorely needed. The racist texts and malicious behaviors demonstrated by four of Fort Lauderdale’s police officers cannot be tolerated. While we commend the Fort Lauderdale Police Department for issuing this report and for removing the officers involved in the sending of racially inappropriate text messages, more aggressive actions must be taken to ensure that law enforcement officials treat every member of this community respectfully and justly. The Broward County Branch of the NAACP will call upon the Justice Department to conduct a patterns and practice investigation. We will also ask that the officers involved, be investigated for possible civil rights or criminal charges.”
From Kevin Myles, NAACP National Field Director, Eastern Division:
“From Ferguson, Missouri to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, misconduct is running rampant in many of our nation’s police departments. The NAACP remains committed to continuing our fight against racial profiling, police brutality and corrupt policing. The NAACP Florida State Conference and Ft. Lauderdale/Broward County Branch will work with the Fort Lauderdale Police Department to ensure that the findings from this report lead to significant change in the city’s. criminal justice system.”
