LANSING, Mich. — More than two dozen people are demanding the City of Lansing create change to stop what they're calling "a pattern of violent over-policing of minority groups."
Mayor Andy Schor meets with Lansing Residents United group.This demand comes about three weeks after a Lansing police officer was placed on administrative leave for striking a 16-year-old girl in the legto gain control.
Dozens of members of Lansing Residents United, a group formed after the controversial arrest, handed letters calling for change directly to Mayor Schor Monday afternoon.
The mayor took time from his scheduled meetings to accept the letters in person out his office.
"We're asking you to protect our neighborhoods because you are one of the people who have the power. We elected you and we're here to tell you that we have these narratives that will continue to grow and we will not stop until you hear us and we see direct action and that's all I have to say to you," a Lansing Residents United member said.
"Thank you," Mayor Andy Schor said. "I'm listening to everybody."
"We want more than listening, Andy. We need actions. Not just listening. Cause you guys say that all the time. We're listening, listening, listening," said Teshia Johnson, another member of Lansing Residents United.
In the letter, the group demands a publicly elected community accountability board. De-escalation tactics training for police, as well as shifting policing resources to community health services which include anti-racist training.
Before marching to the mayor's office, the group gathered outside city hall for a peaceful demonstration.
"They [the police] have this new concept in mind where we're going to enforce everything whether or not because we're the law and it's really not fair towards these people who are working towards peace," John Martinez, a member of Lansing Residents United member, said.
The mayor said he appreciates the group sharing their opinions.
"There are many people asking for many things and we're going to take them all and we're going to listen and evaluate and do what's best for this city," Schor said.
The two officers involved in the case are still on paid administrative leave.
We'll let you know when the police department finishes the investigation.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Appleand Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
