Wimberly on the Bridgewater Mall Altercation: ‘Deeply Disturbing’
Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly (D-35) issued the following statement regarding a posted video of the Bridgewater police handling of an altercation between two students:
“This video is deeply disturbing in light of the continuous discussions we’ve had over the last two years on the need to improve relations between law enforcement and the diverse communities they serve.
“It highlights the necessity and importance of the work that must be done to ensure all situations, even between two children, requiring police attention be handled fairly and judiciously.
“We see clearly, in the quick judgment of fault in this altercation, racial bias. Through the investigation, I hope we reach a resolution that will educate, institute training, and resolve the pain and confusion now felt by students and families in the Bridgewater community.”
From Patch:
Outrage from the community continues to grow with Gov. Phil Murphy now speaking out over how Bridgewater Police handled a teen mall fight.
“Although an investigation is still gathering the facts about this incident, I’m deeply disturbed by what appears to be racially disparate treatment in this video. We’re committed to increasing trust between law enforcement and the people they serve,” Murphy said on Tuesday.
A video began circulating on Sunday showing the fight between a white teen and a Black teen at the Bridgewater Commons mall. The video also shows township police officers kneeling on and handcuffing the Black teen while the white teen is left sitting on a couch. Read More: Cops Criticized After Stopping Teen Fight At Bridgewater Mall
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This incident exposing the the true nature of NJs response to people of color in this state. Racism here in its passive aggressive style (whereas it is racist but NJ won’t acknowledge it)( see Washington vs. Richard Nurthen and pennsauken police department ). When reaching out to state officials in the Ethics department condon these behaviors which gives strength to atrocities to continue. The disparity in treatment is intrenched and prolific, must be rooted out in order affect change. Questioning when you see it only contributes to the incompetence that is rampant in New Jersey. South Jersey especially.