Philadelphia, Sept. 7, 2017 – City Council President Darrell L. Clarke (5th District) issued the following statement on the Philadelphia Police Department’s decision to dismiss Officer Ryan Pownall:
“I thank Commissioner Ross and Philadelphia Police administrators for their serious and thorough consideration of the shooting death of David Jones. Following this incident on June 8th, I requested and received a briefing. As a civilian, I concluded that Officer Pownall violated department protocols, and as a legislator it is my responsibility to ensure the criminal justice system works to uphold the rights of all people. Everyone deserves due process, including Mr. Jones and Officer Pownall. It is my sincere hope that Officer Pownall appreciates that due process has been granted to him, and that as such he respects Commissioner Ross’s decision.
“I again extend my deepest condolences to David Jones’s loved ones. My door is open to them, to discuss whatever they wish, and I ask the press and the public to respect their grief in the meantime.”
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Council President Darrell L. Clarke is serving his second term as the President of Philadelphia City Council. He represents Philadelphia’s 5th Council District. More information at phlcouncil.com/DarrellClarke
