MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Amid public outcries over the deaths of George Floyd and other African Americans by police officers, there is now another outcry by some to defund the police.
In American society, that idea might seem too radical to comprehend. But it is getting serious discussion – including in Minneapolis where Floyd was killed two weeks ago. A majority of Minneapolis city council members have pledged to not just defund – but dismantle the city’s police department.
The problem with a term such as defunding police – is that it immediately become a politically divisive issue. And in cities such as Memphis, where crime is always a top issue, the move would seem to be unworkable.
But defunding does not have to mean disbanding. Perhaps our city council and the administration should take another look at the police department budget – with an eye toward redirecting some funds to community initiatives that help improve quality of life.
In a recent Daily Memphian guest column, legal experts Steve Mulroy and Bryce Ashby called for demilitarizing the MPD – which would save hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment alone. They also advocated strengthening the civilian law enforcement review board – which I strongly support.
The deaths of Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others – along with abusive actions by some officers at protest rallies – have led to the funding debate. Without question, a police department is necessary. But how it operates – might need to change.
And that’s my point of view. I’m Otis Sanford, for Local 24 News.