New Castle County’s Police Accountability Board Convenes to Address Recent Use-of-Force Incidents
The newly appointed Police Accountability Board in New Castle County met for the first time on Tuesday night to discuss recent alleged instances of excessive use of force by county police. The board, consisting of 13 members including 11 county-appointed voting members and two non-voting members from law enforcement, heard almost two hours of public comments from residents, elected officials, and community leaders.
Residents shared their concerns and personal experiences with law enforcement, including incidents such as the arrest of a Black 17-year-old boy for jaywalking and the physical altercation with N’finitee Coleman, a Black woman pulled over by the police. Councilman Jea Street emphasized the need for police reform and suggested changes in use-of-force policies, training on dealing with youth, and mandatory de-escalation policies for officers.
Other attendees, such as Misty Seemans and Dave Bever, called for more transparency and accountability in police disciplinary actions and advocated for statewide reforms to prevent future incidents. Residents like James Parker and Joseph Walls emphasized the importance of holding police accountable for their actions and ensuring proper screening and training to avoid aggressive behavior.
Board President Kim Eppehimer highlighted the need for transparency, communication, and trauma-informed care in policing. The board plans to produce annual reports with recommendations for police and will hold monthly meetings to address community concerns and suggestions. County Public Safety Director Vaughn Bond expressed a desire for a better relationship between the police and the community.
State Representatives Madinah Wilson-Anton and Sophie Phillips also attended the meeting and voiced support for potential police reforms recommended by the board. The board is open to receiving questions and suggestions at NCCPAB@newcastlede.gov.
Source
Photo credit www.delawarepublic.org
