Sunday, September 25, 2016

The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Statement on the Officer Involved Shooting Death of Terence Crutcher in Tulsa, OK

Terence Crutcher

September 22, 2016
 
Alexandria, VA--The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) National President Perry Tarrant released the following statement on the officer involved shooting fatality of Terence Crutcher in Tulsa, OK:
 
"On Friday, September 16, 2016, Terence Crutcher, a Tulsa resident, was fatally shot after police received reports of an abandoned disabled vehicle hindering traffic. According to the video released by the Tulsa police on Monday, Crutcher is seen walking slowly toward his vehicle with his arms raised and is hit with a "Taser" device upon reaching the vehicle. Shortly thereafter, Crutcher is shot dead by Officer Betty Shelby. Tulsa Police Chief Chuck Jordan has confirmed that Crutcher did not have a weapon on his person or in his vehicle.
 
"Mr. Crutcher's death is another officer involved fatal shooting of an African American man. The nature of this particular incident is alarming as video shows that Mr. Crutcher is unarmed and not actively resisting or engaging the officers. The chiefs, executive officers, and membership of NOBLE await further facts and the circumstances articulating the need to apply "deadly force" in this situation.  We understand this is a very difficult time for the Crutcher family and we offer our thoughts and sympathy for their loss.  The continued attention to this incident will also impact the community. 

 "NOBLE's mission is the equitable administration of justice to every community in the United States. As such, we must diligently monitor cases where there appears to be police impropriety. We have been in contact with Chief Jordan and local NOBLE leadership as we are available to review the investigation for thoroughness. Additionally, given Officer Shelby's indictment, we are prepared to support the community through our trust-building programs throughout and after this legal process." [End]

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