IPSWICH — Town Manager Anthony Marino and Police Chief Paul Nikas representing the leadership team of the Town of Ipswich wish to relay to the community that they strongly denounce the actions of Minneapolis Police Officers which resulted in the death of George Floyd last week.
“We are deeply troubled by the death of George Floyd, and condemn the actions of the Minneapolis officers involved,” Chief Nikas said. “When we accept the responsibility of law enforcement, we embrace a tremendous duty to protect human life and serve everyone in our communities. It is clear the officers involved in this situation failed that charge. We want our community to know: our officers are wholly dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of each and every person in Ipswich, and we are regularly training to reflect the most up-to-date policing methods and standards.”
Police officers take a solemn oath to defend human life, and the Ipswich Police Department frequently trains its members on the safest and most modern and appropriate tactics. These training sessions include crucial topics such as de-escalation techniques, mental health, diversity and inclusion, fair and impartial policing, procedural justice and police legitimacy.
“Our hearts are heavy as we reflect on the death of George Floyd and the unacceptable acts of those involved in his death,” Town Manager Marino said. “Police are tasked with protecting human life, and we want our community to know that we denounce what happened to George Floyd. We strive for our town to be a place of inclusion, acceptance and safety, and will continue to seek training opportunities for our police department and further the conversation locally regarding diversity.
“The Town of Ipswich is a safe and welcoming community, and we value our partnerships with civic, cultural, religious, educational and advocacy groups to help those of us in town government better appreciate our diversity and make informed policy decisions.”
The Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, representing Police Chiefs in all 351 cities and towns and most college campuses has this week denounced the egregious actions taken by four members of the Minneapolis Police Department, whether by action or inaction, that resulted in the death of George Floyd on May 25. Massachusetts Police Officers have thoroughly embraced the six pillars of the principles embodied in the final report of the President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, and remain committed to professional conduct, democratic policing and procedural justice for all people.
Chief Nikas and Town Manager Marino will be reaching out to civic and religious leaders in Ipswich, as the police department encourages partnerships and dialog so that we as a society can better understand one another.