In recent years the Fort Wayne Police Department has had an increased budget, larger than any other office in the city. They have used lethal force against multiple young men and women- Linzell Parhm, DaChe’na Warren Hill, Wyatt Beckler and more-unjust executions, including violating human rights of the 2020 Civil Rights Protesters. 

As residents deeply affected by the scenario in Fort Wayne, we seek a sorely needed transformation of our police force. We are haunted by the heartbreaking stories of police brutality in our town, echoing the tragic reality of countless men, women, and children who have faced dire consequences simply for existing before the police. We urge you, Mayor Sharon Tucker, to take immediate action against this ongoing crisis.

In aadition; police officers wielding their weapons at children and the rampant usage of "less lethal weapons" like tear gas, rubber bullets, pepper spray, and batons have chillingly become a common sight. These weapons, touted as safer alternatives to firearms, have been unlawfully used to harass, intimidate, suppress, and disperse peaceful protesters, undermining their fundamental rights to assembly.

Furthermore, we implore you to reprimand officers who misuse their power in such ways and to implement a restructuring of the police force, emphasizing the necessity for accountability, proper training, and commitment to protect rather than harm. Reduced instances of police brutality won’t just be beneficial for the citizens, but it could also save our city millions as. In 2019 alone, U.S. cities paid out more than 300 million dollars in misconduct settlements and court judgements (Source: Wall Street Journal, 2020). Fort Wayne could redirect such funds towards education, health care, or public infrastructure.

Mayor Sharon Tucker, you have the capacity to turn Fort Wayne’s police force into a body that respects and safeguards human rights. We ask you to be that catalyst for change. Please sign this petition and stand with us.