In light of the tragic death of George Floyd and the nationwide calls for reform, the undersigned residents of the city of College Station ask that the College Station Police Department follow police departments across the nation (including Dallas and San Antonio) in making its use-of-force policy publicly available online.

Comprehensive use-of-force policies have been shown by research to be effective. Such policies increase trust in the force as a whole and accountability for those officers who cross the line. They protect the lives of both police and civilians. Having a public use-of-force policy lets residents know that officers follow comprehensive standards. 

Meaningful change is driven by local actions. Every community, no matter how good, can push itself to be better. By making public its use-of-force policy, the College Station Police Department can promote transparent government and accountable policing.