NYCLU Statement on Rochester PD Killing Individual Experiencing Homelessness

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – In response to reporting that Rochester police officers fatally shot an individual experiencing homelessness, the New York Civil Liberties Union issued the following statement from executive director Donna Lieberman:

“No one experiencing homelessness and mental health crises should have their life taken by police. This individual needed social services and permanent housing, not to be fatally shot. Police are simply not equipped to deescalate, and instead bring further tragedy to the experience of vulnerable residents, not safety and security.

“The City of Rochester must immediately reveal all body-worn camera footage and hold officers accountable for taking the very life they were supposed to save.”