Dear Mayor Krewson, Lt. Col. O'Toole, and Sheriff Betts:
We know this is a challenging moment.
The eyes of the nation are again watching the St. Louis region as our city grapples with the verdict in the Jason Stockley case.
In order to move forward, we must learn from the lessons of our past. That means we must continue to allow robust freedom of speech. We must allow the community to continue to express its outrage, pain, and grief.
Since this morning, we’ve begun to hear from citizens about illegal use of chemical weapons by police officers.
As the likelihood of protests continues through the night, weekend and beyond, it’s imperative you remind law enforcement:
To not use chemical weapons, such as pepper spray and tear gas, without following the proper protocols to ensure the protection of constitutional rights.
- Officers’ nametags should be visible at all times for police accountability.
- To wear their body cameras and have them turned on at all times.
- Not use force against protesters absent a real and immediate threat of physical harm to others.
We hope that you will take responsibility to guarantee the rights of all citizens. If you fail to do so, we will explore all legal options to make sure the Constitutional rights of the people are protected and respected.
Sincerely,
Anthony Rothert
Legal Director
ACLU of Missouri