New Haven, CT – Today, Center for Policing Equity CEO and Co-Founder Dr. Phillip Atiba Goff released the following statement on the shooting death of Ma’Khia Bryant:
In the same hour that Derek Chauvin was convicted of murder, 16-year-old Ma’Khia Bryant was killed by police in Columbus, Ohio.
What began with officers being called to de-escalate community violence resulted in Ma’Khia’s death just minutes later. Armed officers were deemed the only means available to resolve a situation that should have ended safely and with everyone alive. Instead, four shots were fired in Ma’Khia’s direction, ending her life.
As the country endures an unabating death toll, it is incumbent upon us to recreate public safety solutions that address community needs, not ones that imperil.
A call for help should never precede one’s death by the hands of those sworn to protect. Our thoughts are with Ma’Khia’s family, the Columbus community, and everyone afflicted by the trauma of another senseless killing.