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A New York City police officer was suspended Sunday after he was filmed Saturday night promoting Donald Trump through his cruiser’s loudspeaker.
Video posted to social media showed the squad car apparently blaring “Trump 2020” from the vehicle in Flatbush. When challenged by bystanders, the officer said it again, video shows.
The department said Sunday morning it was aware of the video and the Brooklyn South Investigation Unit was handling the situation.
Around 12:30 p.m., the department tweeted that the unidentified officer had been disciplined. “Suspended without pay; The police officer who is under investigation for using a department vehicle’s loudspeaker for political purposes has been suspended, effective immediately,” the tweet states. No additional information was offered.
Under the NYPD patrol guide, the prohibited behavior is clearly laid out: “While in duty or in uniform, endorsing political candidates or publicly expressing personal views and opinions concerning the merits of: any political party or candidate for public office; any public policy matter or legislation pending before any government body; or any matter to be decided by a pubic election, except with the permission of the police commissioner.”
Police Commissioner Dermot Shea called the officer’s behavior “one hundred percent unacceptable. Period.”
He added, “Law Enforcement must remain apolitical, it is essential in our role to serve ALL New Yorkers regardless of any political beliefs. It is essential for New Yorkers to trust their Police.”
One hundred percent unacceptable. Period.
Law Enforcement must remain apolitical, it is essential in our role to serve ALL New Yorkers regardless of any political beliefs.
It is essential for New Yorkers to trust their Police.
Updates to follow after initial investigation. https://t.co/C4zyVYWZvN
— Commissioner Shea (@NYPDShea) October 25, 2020
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