"We thank Mayor Krewson for responding to our concerns about police." -- Jeffrey Mittman, Executive Director, ACLU of Missouri
September 19, 2017
Dear Mr. Mittman,
Thank you for your letter yesterday. I appreciate your professionalism and the questions you raise.
I agree that this is a challenging time for St. Louis -- and also a time of opportunity to effect change.
Chanting "Whose streets? Our streets" -- is not appropriate and does not serve to de-escalate the situation and encourage peaceful behavior which is our goal. Our officers are working hard under difficult circumstances and have shown considerable restraint over the last four days. That said, I agree that our officers have to be professional at ALL times, even if disrepectful language and behavior is exhibited towards them.
Tense and hostile situations are what Police are trained for, and as public servants we are rightly held to the highest professional standards. I expect, as does Chief O'Toole, that the men and women who dutifully serve and protect our city will conduct themselves professionally, including wearing their name tags at all times.
The issues you and others have raised are being investigated, and steps are being taken to remind all officers of the accountability required to meet the department's high professional standards.
Residents do have a First Amendment right to express themselves -- and to question their police department. The police department will continue to protect residents, businesses and property while exhibiting the high standards required of them.
Again, thank you for your letter - I look forward to working with you.
Respectfully,
Lyda Krewson