Black City Council Members Reject Mayor Adams’ Offer of Police Ride-Along
A coalition of black City Council members has declined Mayor Eric Adams’ offer to participate in a police ride-along as part of his efforts to oppose a controversial cop bill. In a statement, the group expressed that they do not require the mayor’s assistance in understanding the work of police officers. The lawmakers emphasized their engagement with local precincts and officers and rejected any suggestion that they lack knowledge of the day-to-day operations of the NYPD and the impact on their constituents. They also pointed out that many city elected officials have previously participated in ride-alongs.
This response comes as Mayor Adams attempts to persuade two council members to change their votes on the “How Many Stops Act,” which would require police officers to document even minor encounters with New Yorkers. The mayor vetoed the bill, citing concerns about increased paperwork for officers. He needs to convince two council members to prevent a veto-proof majority from restoring the bill.
Last week, Mayor Adams proposed that council members go on ride-alongs with police to witness firsthand how officers perform their duties and engage with the community. However, the black City Council members have rejected this suggestion. Reverend Al Sharpton is among those who support the mayor’s opposition to the bill.
While some council members, including City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino and Reverend Al Sharpton, agree with Mayor Adams’ concerns about excessive paperwork, a majority of the council supports the bill as a means of increasing transparency and accountability within the NYPD.
The statement rejecting the mayor’s offer was signed by several council members, including Chris Banks, Selvana Brooks-Powers, Rita Joseph, Farah Louis, Sandy Nurse, Chi Osse, Kevin Riley, Yusef Salaam, Nantasha Williams, and Darlene Mealy. The mayor’s office has not yet responded to this development.
