For Immediate Releas
June 4, 2008 |
CONTACT: Jason J. Shedlock
Phone: (202) 724-8779
Fax: (202) 724-8099 |
MENDELSON STATEMENT ON MAYOR’S PUBLIC SAFETY INITIATIVES
“I commend the Mayor for expanding the “Focused Improvement Area” program. Infusing law enforcement with social services is the right way to go.
“However, I am shocked at the approach being taken by the “Neighborhood Safety Zone” program. I support increased police presence to reduce crime, but to stop innocent people, require identification, and require everyone to explain themselves is unlawful.
“I guess the plan is to hope criminals will not walk into neighborhoods. I also suppose the plan is to take the criminal’s word for it when he or she gives the police a reason for driving into a neighborhood.
“Just as the administration had to back away from their original plan to knock on doors to search for guns, I hope that they will rethink this wrongheaded approach. This plan is riddled with problems and is a reaction that will likely do more harm than good.” |