On Tuesday, June 16, 2020, the full Common Council voted unanimously in approving a resolution urging the Fire and Police Commission to adopt a policy addressing any “I can’t breathe” plea by an individual who is in police custody.

The resolution was introduced by Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II in response to the recent death of George Floyd as well as previous deaths of Manuel Ellis, Eric Garner and Derek Williams who all stated they were having trouble breathing during interactions with police officers prior to passing away.

Alderman Stamper proposed the resolution in light of the recent protests against police corruption.

“With the resolution, the Fire and Police Commission is now encouraged to work with the police department to enact a policy to help remedy loss of life due to excessive force.

“The resolution requires policy changes that will help protect our citizens, especially people of color who are disproportionately impacted by the systemic issues that have led to excessive force by a police officer resulting in death,” he said.