a mESSAGE FROM MAYOR SCHAVE
June 12, 2020
It is with great sadness, that I feel compelled to respond to the horrific death of George Floyd. The City of Aberdeen supports the guarantees of equal social opportunities and equal protection under the law, regardless of race, religion, or other personal characteristics. That all people have the right to life, liberty and security of person, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
As mayor of Aberdeen, and speaking for myself, I assure you I am appalled at any improper use of force by a community police officer. I am saddened by the George Floyd incident. It is hard to even imagine such a thing taking place today, and not being appalled. As the uncle of biracial nieces and a nephew, I am concerned by such activity.
I am also concerned about the riots and damage caused by unruly people destroying their own neighborhoods. Who is behind all this rioting and why is it being set off to the side?
The Aberdeen Police Department already has policies and procedures in place that are in line with the “8 Can’t Wait” regarding Use of Force. Since the transition to LEXI POL based policies, the Aberdeen Police Department has consistently updated and trained on the policies and procedures that are based on: 1) best practice, 2) updated state and federal law, 3) updates that are recommended by the Washington State Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. The Aberdeen Police Department has a robust manual that reduces liability for the city and the agency as well as insures the citizens are receiving current, progressive law enforcement.
Sincerely,
Mayor Schave