Today, Governor Cooper, Attorney General Josh Stein, members of the Legislative Black Caucus, the Pasquotank County NAACP, NC NAACP and other Pasquotank leaders met to discuss issues surrounding the shooting of Andrew Brown, Jr, and changes that need to be made in NC law. The Governor continued to express his belief that federal officials should continue to investigate this shooting and that special prosecutors should handle cases of police shootings. The Governor also expressed his support of a change in state law to increase public access to incident footage including body camera footage.
Attorney General Stein updated the group on the TREC recommendations that, if implemented, could help create more transparency and confidence in the system.
Community leaders expressed gratitude for the conversation and urged elected officials to continue to get justice for Andrew Brown, Jr. Rev. Dr. Spearman announced that tomorrow they will meet with the US Attorney General to request a federal investigation to help restore confidence in this case.
Legislative Black Caucus members discussed current legislation which would demand video release and make other needed changes for equal justice.
Local leaders reminded the group of who Andrew Brown, Jr was as a human, father and neighbor, saying that people of color and those who have been previously involved in criminal justice system are treated unfairly and this must change. They committed to continue their efforts for justice including reminding others of the importance of voting.
Attendees of today’s meeting included:
Governor Cooper
Attorney General Stein
Rev. Dr. T Anthony Spearman, NC NAACP
Keith Rivers, Pasquotank NAACP
Rep. Kelly Alexander
Sen. Robinson
Rep. Terry Garrison
Sen. Murdock
Sen. Mohammed
Rep. Raymond Smith
Rep. Kandie Smith
Rep. Amos Quick
Rep. Abe Jones
Sen. Joyce Wadell
Rep. Carolyn Logan
Rep. Nasif Majeed
Rep. Brandon Lofton
Sen. Gladys Robinson
Rep. James Gailliard
Sen. Natalie Murdock
Sen. Mujtaba Mohammed
Approx. 25 Pasquotank community members
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