PCC unites with colleagues to make statement on the death of George Floyd

Following the death of George Floyd, Merseyside’s Police Commissioner is joining with her PCC colleagues to reiterate her commitment to working with communities to continue to strengthen the relationship between the police and the public.

Jane Kennedy has united with the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) equality, diversity and human rights leads David Munro, PCC for Surrey and Hardyal Dhindsa, PCC for Derbyshire, to release the following statement:

“Alongside our communities, we are saddened and appalled by the footage that has emerged from the US over recent days of the death of George Floyd at the hands of US police officers.

“We express our heartfelt sympathies to the family and loved ones of George Floyd and we acknowledge the current strength of feeling as well as the impact that incidents of this nature have on communities around the world.

“In this country, we are proud of the ‘policing by consent’ model on which our forces operate and the work that our police officers and staff undertake day in, day out to keep our communities safe. We also have clear and accountable governance systems in place, with directly elected Police and Crime Commissioners representing their local communities and holding their Chief Constables to account on behalf of their communities for policing in their area.

“We are committed to working with our communities and Chief Constables to ensure that the principle of ‘the police are the public and the public are the police’ is worked towards and achieved, and that we deliver against the important commitments set out within the NPCC Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy.”

Jane added: “People here, and across the globe are rightly appalled by the way George Floyd lost his life. As shown by the peaceful demonstration on St George’ Plateau last night, and many before it, people here on Merseyside will not and do not tolerate injustice. Merseysiders are proud to say our region is no place for hate.

“Hate crime is never acceptable and I am proud to work with the Anthony Walker Foundation and Stop Hate UK to tackle all forms of hate crime and discrimination and offer support to anyone affected.

“The relationship between the police and the public here is strong, but there is always more we can do. I reiterate my commitment to working closely with all communities across Merseyside to continue to build trust and act as a voice on the issues which matter most to local people.”

If you have been affected by hate crime, Stop Hate UK are available 24/7. The helpline is confidential and independent and can be reached by calling ‪0800 138 1625‬ or at www.stophateuk.org