State Rep. Christie Carpino: Police Accountability

Public safety and equality can coexist.

I firmly believe in Connecticut, the two do not need to be mutually exclusive. Unfortunately, the 70+ page proposal drafted during a public health crisis, voted on in a building that’s closed to the public, and debated while the state slept (starting well past 1 am) will do little to achieve either. It is disappointing rhetoric has overshadowed the hard truth that we can both support public safety and demand equality for the entire community.

There are things I know and things I will never know. I will never know what it is like to be discriminated against because of the color of my skin. I will never know how anyone entrusted with serving the public could force the life out of another human being. I hope I will never know the fear of a life or death situation staring down the barrel of a firearm. But, I do know here in Connecticut an overwhelming majority of the police that serve and protect are honest dedicated individuals. I know the women and men of law enforcement that live and work in Cromwell and Portland have diverse backgrounds, practice different religions, speak a variety of languages; and they all answer the call. Every call. Risking their own lives to protect all members of our community.

As with many complex proposals, there were positive portions. Accountability, additional training, greater oversight, an independent review; of course I support every one of those provisions. Lifting the veil over serious disciplinary actions? Not only do I agree, I voted against including similar provisions in contracts last year.

But, supporting this bill as written puts the public safety of our entire community at risk. Officers, bystanders, and victims alike will be in danger of greater harm. This bill prevents police departments from obtaining federal equipment to protect individuals during an active shooting, hostage situation, or disaster. It will cause officers to hesitate in life or death situations because they are fearful of unwarranted lawsuits when they aid a victim or capture a perpetrator. It takes away a valuable tool to remove guns and drugs from the streets – even when there’s consent. And the public will be at risk of not receiving lifesaving aid from the best of the best because current and future officers – of all colors, backgrounds, and ethnicities – will no longer serve.

Just as no one should be judged on the color of their skin, no profession should be based on the inhumane actions of a rogue few. There was no reason for this bill to be rushed – we certainly could have reached a fair and thoughtful compromise to address discrimination and improve public safety had we taken more time. We should be looking to achieve common goals and strengthen our community. There is no need for further division.