As a concerned father, grandfather, and citizen of Fort Wayne, IN, it is heart-wrenching to witness the troubling uptick in unjust police shootings, particularly involving unarmed young black men, in our own community. These unnerving incidents are not isolated, but part of a tragic pattern that undermines the trust we place in our law enforcement. This petition seeks accountability for these actions, particularly a recent incident involving the unlawful shooting of a defenseless young black male.

According to data from the Police Violence Report, in 2020 alone, black individuals were 3 times more likely than whites to be killed by police, despite being 1.3 times less likely to be armed. This deeply rooted systemic inequity constitutes an urgent crisis that demands our collective response.

This petition urges Fort Wayne's City Council to implement transparent investigations of these incidents and institute comprehensive reforms to police training and community policing policies. Together, we can ensure justice is served and prevent further unnecessary tragedies. This path toward resolution begins with holding our police officers accountable. Sign this petition and join the fight for a safer, more equitable Fort Wayne.