Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan Announces Initial Series of Policing Reforms

By albanyhousing | Published: June 8, 2020

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan Announces Initial Series of Policing Reforms

ALBANY, NY – Mayor Kathy Sheehan has signed an Executive Order (attached) mandating an initial series of policing reforms. These reforms were announced after the first round of “Creating Change Together” conversations were held with community members, Mayor Sheehan, and Albany Police Chief Eric Hawkins.

The Executive Order signed by Mayor Sheehan institute the following policing reforms in the City of Albany:

Banning the use of choke holds and knee-to-neck holds by the Albany Police Department
Establishing a duty to intervene when a fellow officer is seen using excessive force or verbally escalating a situation
Reaffirming training requirements for de-escalation and implicit bias for all members of the Albany Police Department
Requiring the history of racism in the United States be taught to all members of the Albany Police Department

“Today, I signed an executive order that represents a small first step in a series of police reforms we will be pursuing in the City of Albany,” said Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan. “Input from our residents into these efforts is critical to building trust and accountability of policing in our city. I encourage all residents to share their thoughts and ideas about reforms you would like to see with my office or with a member of the Albany Common Council.

Additionally, I want to lend my voice in support of legislation being proposed at the State level, including the repeal of 50-A, and urge the Governor and State Legislature to take action on these important reforms as soon as possible.”