At the Last Subcommittee Meeting…
The Criminal Justice subcommittee welcomed guest speaker Gregory Key, special assistant to the Mayor of West Palm Beach and a retired sergeant with the West Palm Beach Police Department. Key worked for the West Palm Beach Police Department for 30+ years. He provided his perspective on racial sensitivity training and the history of racial inequity within the police department.
He highlighted the importance of improving new officers’ initial training, especially field training (which should include attending community meetings and greater community interaction), as well as ensuring that there are promotional opportunities for police officers of color.
Subcommittee members asked Key’s opinion on a civilian review board. He said he would be wary if the members of the board lacked knowledge of the law.
Subcommittee members suggested creating an incentive for police officers to specialize in field training and establishing ascending ranks within the position of being a field training officer. Key added that increased barriers to promotions such as more training or education disincentivize officers.
Join Us at Our Next Subcommittee Meeting
The next (virtual) Criminal Justice subcommittee meeting is next week on Wednesday, June 9th, 2021 from 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Zoom link to join: https://zoom.us/j/98434740049.
Subcommittee members will be preparing for the Action Summit.
Remember, you’re allowed to ask questions and make comments at these meetings! We’d love to see you there!