Late Monday afternoon, the City of Rochester announced the suspension of the police officers involved in pepper-spraying a nine-year-old girl last week.
Mayor Lovely Warren ordered Police Chief Cyntha Herriott-Sullivan to suspend the officers, at least until the police internal investigation is completed. Warren also announced her support for state legislation that would allow cities to immediately discipline officers when necessary.
The mayor said “What happened Friday was simply horrible, and has rightly outraged, all of our community.” “Unfortunately, state law and union contract prevents me from taking more immediate and serious action. I will lead the charge that these laws be changed as part of our response to the Governor’s Executive Order 203. And, we will be asking our state legislators to join me, and make numerous changes in Civil Service Law that would allow cities to more quickly issue discipline in cases like this one.”
State Attorney General Leticia James issued a statement saying that pepper spray should never be used on a child, and saying it appears reform is needed in the Rochester Police Department.
The Group United Church Leadership Ministries said pepper spray use should be banned on children.