COLORADO SPRINGS — News5 is always working with you to look for solutions to better our community and our homes for everyone.
News5's Rob Quirk had the opportunity to moderate a roundtable discussion about social justice, race relations, police brutality and law enforcement reform happening within our community.
This forum, cosponsored by the Council of Neighbors and Organizations, consisted of five panel members chosen to represent all walks of life: Colorado Springs Police Chief Vince Niski, Dr. Stephany Rose Spaulding, Justina Ramirez, State Representative Tony Exum, and Fountain Police Chief Chris Heberer.
The open dialogue is one way we're trying to bridge the gap here in Colorado Springs between citizens and those who are sworn to protect and serve.
One of the points touched on during the discussion is changes to state law on police actions and accountability in the wake of George Floyd's murder. In Colorado Springs, applicants for the Law Enforcement Transparency and Accountability Commission have been narrowed down from over 800 people to 26.
This commission would assist City Council with budget recommendations using data-driven audits of law enforcement performance, provide a platform for both citizens and officers to voice concerns about the police department, recommend policy changes to council, and promote improved understanding between the public and police.
You can watch the discussion in the video above.
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