On December 16, 2021, a tragic event unfolded that has left me, and my family, in endless grief and confusion. My son, Christopher Anthony Alexander, was shot six times and fatally injured by the Clinton City Police Department in Utah during what was supposed to be an intervention for a mental health crisis. After the incident, I was taken to the department for questioning, only to face officers who claimed ignorance of my son’s whereabouts, despite knowing he had been killed.

This petition is my plea for transparency, accountability, and systemic change. It is painfully apparent that the current protocols for handling individuals experiencing a mental health crisis are fatally flawed. My son deserved compassionate help, not lethal force. This petition serves not only to honour his memory but to advocate for change that could save others from similar fates.

Statistics reveal a chilling reality: according to the Treatment Advocacy Center, individuals with untreated mental illness are 16 times more likely to be killed during a police encounter than other civilians in the United States. This is a systemic issue that extends beyond Clinton and demands urgent reform.

Here's what we demand:

1. **Mandated Training:** All officers in the Clinton City Police Department must undergo comprehensive training in mental health crisis intervention, emphasizing de-escalation techniques and non-lethal responses.

2. **External Review and Accountability:** Every instance of police use of lethal force, particularly in mental health crises, should be independently reviewed to ensure transparency and accountability.

3. **Creation of Crisis Intervention Teams:** Deploy specialized units trained in mental health assessments that work alongside law enforcement to handle such crises, aiming to de-escalate and mediate rather than eliminating threats through force.

4. **Community Involvement:** Establish a community oversight board that includes mental health professionals, individuals with mental health experiences, and community leaders to provide guidance and monitor police practices.

By addressing these areas, we can not only prevent future tragedies but also mark a step towards building a community that values life, understanding, and compassion over fear and misunderstanding.

My son’s story is not unique; many families suffer similar heartaches due to an inadequate system. Let Christopher’s legacy be one of change. Speak his name, support the cause, and stand with me in demanding justice and reform.

Please, for Christopher, for my family, and for all those who have been affected by senseless police violence, sign this petition. Together, we can make a difference.