Philadelphia’s Mayor and Commissioner for Police have rendered an apology for using tear gas on demonstrators earlier this month.
They also issued a moratorium on the practice after receiving strong tongue-lashings from the public. Jim Kenney (Mayor) told the media on Thursday that he was compelled to speak against the actions of his officers during the June 1st demonstration on Interstate 676 after watching a New York Times video that displayed loads of protestors sprayed with tear gas.
“Members of the department made decisions on use-of-force that were completely unacceptable,” he underlined at a press conference.
Kenney added that his previous statements in support of the police actions were based on “inaccurate information” and apologized to residents.
Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said she is putting up efforts in response to the tear gas incident. She placed a moratorium on using the weapon to disperse crowds that “includes any persons who are peacefully assembling or passively resisting.”
An unnamed officer who took part of the pepper spraying of a protester is under investigation and will be suspended for 30 days with intent to dismiss, according to Outlaw. His incident has also been referred to Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner.
source; abc news