New York Police Department have it tough with death of George Floyd

Photo courtesy of New York Police Department

There are no excuses for what was done unto George Floyd.

There are also no excuses for the racism, injustice and violence experienced by communities of color from members of the New York Police Department (NYPD). Some use unnecessary violence. Some are offensive. Some are disrespectful of the public. Some are racist. These "some" do not belong in the police force, and it is the onus of the Mayor and Police Commissioner to ensure a system is in place to remove them.

This sentiment is echoed by Mayor Bill de Blasio's comment, "Racism hangs like a cloud every hour of every day and if (the people's) assumption is in their encounters with a police officer that they will not be given fair and equal treatment, that's an unacceptable state of affairs".

Not withstanding the good intentions and efforts of the Mayor and NYPD, there will still be instances where a police officer may do something wrong in the eyes of the public.

However, majority do the right thing and wear the badge for the right reason.

Photo courtesy of New York Police Department

- Many members of NYPD are the first responders putting their lives on hold and in danger to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic on the front lines in NYC.

- Police officers Hogan, Riordan, Abdalla, and Ouellette from NYPD Midtown North Precinct carried a woman suffering from smoke inhalation down 20 flights of stairs in order to save her life during a fire.

Photo courtesy of New York Police Department

- Officers at the 50 precinct delivered groceries and household items to families in need, making sure no one goes hungry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

- Instead of jumping out of the car to save their own lives, Sgt. Hameed Armani and partner Officer Peter Cybulski drove 1½ blocks away from thousands of people in Time Square after a suspected explosive device was thrown into their vehicle.

Photo courtesy of New York Police Department

These are just some examples of the acts of compassion, social good, bravery and heroism by members of the NYPD that take place every day around the city.

The faults of a few often drive wedges into the community. When you join the streets, just remember, every NYPD officer swore an oath to protect this city and its people, and to carry out this mission no matter the circumstances. Fidelis ad mortem (Faithful to Death).

Photo courtesy of New York City Police Department