As a response to the protests against racism and police brutality following the death of George Floyd, President Donald Trump has signed an order for police reform. The reform aims to address concerns about racial injustice and maintain “law and order.” The order includes a ban on choke holds by police unless an officer’s life is in danger.
During the signing ceremony, President Trump expressed sympathy for the families of victims of police violence and pledged to fight for justice. He emphasized the importance of law and order, warning that looters and anarchists during protests will face penalties.
The reform encourages police departments to adopt the latest standards for use of force, involve social workers in non-violent cases related to drug addiction and homelessness, and improve information sharing to prevent officers with poor records from being hired without background checks. Furthermore, the order frees federal funds for police departments that receive independent certification from external bodies and promotes the use of less-lethal weapons such as stun guns.
President Trump reiterated his stance against the calls to “defund the police” and emphasized his opposition to the dismantling of police departments. This decision to ban chokeholds aligns with the ban included in the Democratic legislation known as the Justice in Policing Act.