National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Responds to Indictment in Breonna Taylor Death
Alexandria, VA - September 23, 2020 - The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) has been closely monitoring the details surrounding the shooting death and investigation of Ms. Breonna Taylor in Louisville, KY. Six months later - exactly one hundred and ninety-four (194) days after this highly questionable use-of-force incident, we have learned as a nation that none of the officers involved are being charged directly for her death. Only one of the officers received a grand jury indictment for wanton endangerment for the shots he fired into an adjacent apartment - but not for her death. Two other officers present during the shooting were not indicted.
"We know that people are experiencing a myriad of emotions right now...anger, sadness and confusion. These long-awaited charges come as a disappointment following the outcry of all that demand equitable justice in Ms. Taylor's death and serves as yet another example of a "miscarriage of justice." Rightfully so, there continues to be a lot of distrust in law enforcement within many of our communities throughout this country. NOBLE is committed to working with federal, state, and local law enforcement leaders to challenge existing practices to reduce the senseless killings of our community members by bringing accountability and transparency," said NOBLE National President Lynda R. Williams. "While the family recently received a $12 million settlement, we know justice has no price tag. There is no value you can place on someone's life," she continued.
Today, we are thinking of all of the people who knew Ms. Breonna Taylor before her identity became a "hashtag" following her death in March. We grieve with her family and support the continued peaceful demonstrations across the country that are giving voice to communities demanding reforms to policing and addressing systemic racism. We too, "say her name" as we fight for police reform and equitable treatment from law enforcement.
About the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives
Since 1976, The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) has served as the conscience of law enforcement by being committed to justice by action. NOBLE represents over 3,000 members internationally, who are primarily African American chief executive officers of law enforcement agencies at federal, state, county and municipal levels, other law enforcement administrators, and criminal justice practitioners. For more information, visit www.NOBLENational.org.
