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New York City Council
Committee on Public Safety
Feb 24, 2025
·
10:00 AM
4 hr 36 min
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Summary
A hearing on the NYPD's gang database and DNA collection practices, focusing on two bills:
- Intro 125, which would prohibit DNA collection from juveniles without parental consent
- Intro 798, which would abolish the NYPD's gang database
Discussions centered on:
- The effectiveness and potential racial bias of the gang database
- The impact on communities of color
- Transparency and oversight issues
- Ethical concerns surrounding juvenile DNA collection
Features testimony from NYPD officials, public defenders, civil rights advocates, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Yusef Salaam introduces the public safety committee meeting
Council Member Yusef Salaam opens the public safety committee meeting by introducing himself as the chair and recognizing the present committee members. - Recognized committee members include Deputy Speaker Ayala, …
0:00:33
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16 sec
Council Member Salaam explains Intro 125 on DNA collection from juveniles
Council Member Yusef Salaam provides an overview of Introduction 125, which aims to prohibit the NYPD from collecting DNA from juveniles without informed consent from a parent, legal guardian, or …
0:00:50
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139 sec
Council Member Salaam discusses Intro 798 on abolishing NYPD's gang database
Council Member Yusef Salaam provides an overview of Introduction 798, which seeks to abolish the NYPD's criminal group database (gang database) and prohibit the creation of any successor database with …
0:03:09
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122 sec
Council Member Salaam concludes opening remarks and hands over to public advocate
Council Member Yusef Salaam concludes his opening remarks by posing critical questions about balancing public safety with civil liberties and emphasizing the goal of building a fair and accountable system. …
0:05:11
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50 sec
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams introduces himself and the hearing
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams introduces himself and thanks the committee for holding the hearing on the NYPD's gang database and DNA collection practices. - Williams notes his punctual attendance before …
0:06:04
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17 sec
Overview of NYPD's Criminal Group Database (CGD)
Public Advocate Williams provides an overview of the NYPD's Criminal Group Database (CGD), also known as the gang database. - The CGD has been maintained by NYPD since 2013 - …
0:06:21
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30 sec
Issues with the Criminal Group Database
Public Advocate Williams outlines several issues with the Criminal Group Database, focusing on unclear criteria for inclusion and removal. - Criteria for inclusion can be as vague as wishing a …
0:06:52
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46 sec
Demographics and racial disparities in the Criminal Group Database
Public Advocate Williams highlights the racial disparities in the Criminal Group Database and draws parallels to stop-and-frisk practices. - 99% of those in the CGD are Black or Hispanic, 98% …
0:07:39
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26 sec
Consequences of being in the Criminal Group Database
Public Advocate Williams outlines the various negative consequences individuals face when labeled as gang members in the Criminal Group Database. - Increased police harassment, stops, and arrests - Interruption of …
0:08:06
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65 sec
Proposed legislation to abolish the Criminal Group Database
Public Advocate Williams introduces Intro 798, a bill to abolish the Criminal Group Database and prevent similar databases from being established. - The bill is co-sponsored by Council Member Stevens …
0:09:11
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22 sec
Reasons to abolish the CGD and alternative approaches to public safety
Public Advocate Williams presents reasons for abolishing the Criminal Group Database and suggests alternative approaches to public safety. - NYPD has violated its database entry and renewal process - The …
0:09:33
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64 sec
Clarification on the intent of the legislation and conclusion
Public Advocate Williams clarifies the intent behind the proposed legislation and concludes his remarks. - Williams emphasizes that the issue is not police involvement, but consistent over-policing - He argues …
0:10:38
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62 sec
Council Member Althea V. Stevens advocates for abolishing NYPD's gang database
Council Member Althea V. Stevens expresses strong support for Intro 798, which calls for the abolishment of the NYPD's gang database. She argues that the database disproportionately targets Black and …
0:12:01
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3 min
Introduction of NYPD representatives and hearing overview
Michael Gerber, Deputy Commissioner of Legal Matters for the NYPD, introduces himself and his colleagues present at the hearing. He acknowledges the opportunity to speak about youth, gangs, and the …
0:16:04
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31 sec
Importance of reducing gun violence and the role of the criminal group database
Michael Gerber emphasizes the NYPD's mission to reduce gun violence, highlighting the significant role of gang or crew activity in city shootings. He introduces the criminal group database as a …
0:16:38
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46 sec
Current statistics of the criminal group database
Michael Gerber provides current statistics on the criminal group database, showing a significant reduction in the number of individuals and juveniles listed. - Total individuals in the database decreased from …
0:17:25
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26 sec
Racial composition of the database and correlation with shooting statistics
Michael Gerber addresses the racial composition of the criminal group database and its correlation with shooting statistics in New York City. He acknowledges the high percentage of people of color …
0:17:53
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43 sec
Contents and uses of the criminal group database
Michael Gerber provides a detailed explanation of the contents and uses of the criminal group database, emphasizing its role in preventing and investigating gang-related violence. - Database contains information on …
0:18:35
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122 sec
Protections and limitations on the use of database information
Michael Gerber outlines the protections and limitations in place to prevent misuse of information in the criminal group database. - Inclusion in the database is not a matter of public …
0:20:39
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39 sec
Recent changes and improvements to the criminal group database policies
Michael Gerber details recent changes and improvements made to the criminal group database policies following a DOI investigation and report. - Stricter criteria for adding individuals to the database, requiring …
0:21:21
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3 min
Criticism of Intro 798 and consequences of abolishing the database
Michael Gerber strongly criticizes Intro 798, which would eliminate the criminal group database, and outlines potential negative consequences of such action. - Argues that abolishing the database would remove an …
0:24:33
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109 sec
NYPD community programs for youth engagement and violence prevention
Michael Gerber highlights various NYPD community programs aimed at engaging youth and preventing violence, emphasizing their importance in the department's public safety mission. - Mentions programs like the Options program, …
0:26:24
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69 sec
Overview of Intro 125 on DNA collection from juveniles
Michael Gerber introduces Intro 125, which prohibits the collection of DNA from minors prior to arrest without consent from a parent, legal guardian, or attorney. - Acknowledges the concerns motivating …
0:27:36
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19 sec
NYPD's position on Intro 125 and request for a narrow exception
Michael Gerber presents the NYPD's position on Intro 125 and requests a narrow exception for specific circumstances involving juvenile suspects in serious crimes. - Asks for an exception when a …
0:27:55
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59 sec
Introduction and questions about the city's local DNA database
Council Member Yusef Salaam initiates a discussion about the city's local DNA database and the NYPD's practices of collecting and storing samples. Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber provides an overview of …
0:28:56
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3 min
Focus on DNA collection from juveniles
The discussion narrows to focus on DNA collection practices for juveniles. Deputy Commissioner Gerber provides specific statistics and explains the NYPD's policy for collecting DNA from minors. - In 2024, …
0:32:52
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79 sec
Clarification on NYPD's DNA collection practices
Council Member Salaam seeks clarification on NYPD's DNA collection practices, specifically asking if everything discarded is collected for DNA. Deputy Commissioner Gerber clarifies this misconception. - Gerber emphatically states that …
0:34:12
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43 sec
NYPD's policy on collecting DNA samples from juveniles
Deputy Commissioner Gerber explains NYPD's strict policy on collecting DNA samples from juveniles, emphasizing the limited circumstances under which it's allowed. - For 12-year-olds, DNA collection is only considered for …
0:34:55
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110 sec
Statistics on juvenile DNA collection and its use in serious crimes
NYPD officials provide additional statistics and context on juvenile DNA collection, emphasizing its rarity and use in serious crimes. - Chief Lipetri states that 99% of juvenile abandonment or consent …
0:36:47
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143 sec
Process of reviewing and removing DNA samples from the database
Deputy Commissioner Gerber explains the process for reviewing and potentially removing DNA samples from the database. - Individuals can always seek a court order for removal - NYPD has a …
0:39:11
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4 min
Guidelines for storing DNA samples and obtaining samples from suspects
The discussion focuses on guidelines for storing DNA samples and the methods for obtaining samples from suspects who have not been arrested. - Gerber outlines three avenues for obtaining DNA …
0:44:25
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3 min
Statistics on DNA sample collection methods
Deputy Commissioner Gerber provides statistics on DNA sample collection methods for 2024, covering all suspects (not just juveniles). - 2,751 abandonment samples were collected - 952 samples were obtained through …
0:47:29
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71 sec
Differences in policies for DNA collection from juveniles vs. adults
Deputy Commissioner Gerber explains the differences in policies governing DNA collection from juveniles compared to adults. - NYPD policy distinguishes between juveniles and adults due to sensitivity to age - …
0:48:44
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127 sec
Informing individuals of their rights when requesting DNA samples
Deputy Commissioner Gerber explains the NYPD's process for informing individuals of their rights when requesting voluntary DNA samples. - NYPD is required to inform individuals of their right to refuse …
0:50:53
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45 sec
Use of DNA samples in investigations and convictions
Council Member Salaam inquires about the use of DNA samples collected without warrants in investigations leading to convictions, particularly for minors. - Gerber states that NYPD doesn't have specific data …
0:51:39
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84 sec
Questioning the accuracy of DNA sample collection statistics
Council Member Diana I. Ayala questions NYPD officials about the accuracy of their claim that 99% of DNA samples are connected to arrests. NYPD officials clarify that 99% of DNA …
0:53:05
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108 sec
Request for data on convictions resulting from DNA samples
Council Member Diana I. Ayala requests specific data on convictions resulting from non-consensual DNA samples collected in 2024. NYPD officials acknowledge they don't have immediate access to this data but …
0:54:53
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99 sec
Discussion on the process of DNA collection and arrests
Council Member Diana I. Ayala expresses concerns about the NYPD's DNA collection process, particularly for juveniles. NYPD officials explain their procedures, emphasizing the balance between solving crimes and respecting individual …
0:56:32
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4 min
Protocol for contacting parents/guardians of juvenile suspects
Council Member Diana I. Ayala questions NYPD officials about their protocol for contacting parents or guardians of juvenile suspects. NYPD officials explain their legal obligations and procedures for involving parents …
1:01:16
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150 sec
Debate on collecting abandoned property after consent denial
Council Member Diana I. Ayala questions NYPD officials about the practice of collecting abandoned property for DNA samples after consent has been denied. NYPD officials explain their policy and legal …
1:03:46
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103 sec
Statistics on non-consensual DNA samples collected from minors
Council Member Diana I. Ayala requests specific statistics on non-consensual DNA samples collected from minors in 2024. NYPD officials provide the requested information and context about these samples. - NYPD …
1:05:29
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58 sec
Justification for non-consensual DNA collection from juveniles
Council Member Diana I. Ayala questions NYPD officials about the justification for collecting non-consensual DNA samples from juveniles. NYPD officials provide context and statistics to support their practices, while Ayala …
1:06:28
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67 sec
Debate on the ethics and effectiveness of DNA collection practices
Council Member Diana I. Ayala and NYPD officials engage in a debate about the ethics and effectiveness of DNA collection practices, particularly for juveniles. The discussion covers the balance between …
1:07:35
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3 min
Discussion of proposed legislation on juvenile DNA collection
Council Member Diana I. Ayala and NYPD officials discuss proposed legislation regarding juvenile DNA collection. NYPD officials explain their position on the bill, suggesting a narrow carve-out for certain serious …
1:10:58
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95 sec
Request for information on circumstances leading to juvenile DNA collection
Council Member Diana I. Ayala requests information on the circumstances that led to the collection of 174 abandonment samples from juveniles. NYPD officials provide context and statistics to explain these …
1:12:35
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85 sec
Concluding remarks on fair process and removal of DNA samples
Council Member Diana I. Ayala makes concluding remarks emphasizing the need for a fair process in DNA collection and the importance of removing DNA samples when appropriate. She acknowledges the …
1:14:01
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66 sec
Jumaane Williams addresses concerns about community safety and policing approaches
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams opens with remarks addressing misconceptions about public safety bills and critiques of current policing strategies. He emphasizes that opposition to certain policing methods does not equate …
1:15:10
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122 sec
Questioning clearance rates for murders and shootings before and after the gang database
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams questions NYPD officials about clearance rates for murders and shootings before and after the implementation of the gang database. The discussion clarifies which database is being …
1:17:12
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57 sec
Discussion on the effectiveness of the gang database in crime prevention
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and NYPD officials engage in a discussion about the effectiveness of the gang database in preventing crime, particularly in Brooklyn. Chief Lipetri provides examples of how …
1:18:10
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99 sec
Debate on crime statistics and the impact of recent legislation on policing effectiveness
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and NYPD officials engage in a heated debate about crime statistics and the impact of recent legislation like the How Many Stops Act and bail laws …
1:19:49
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73 sec
Inquiry about sharing gang database information with other agencies for intervention purposes
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams inquires about the NYPD's practices in sharing information from the gang database with other agencies for early intervention purposes. The discussion reveals the complexities and limitations …
1:21:03
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108 sec
Racial demographics in the NYPD gang database
Council Member Althea V. Stevens questions NYPD officials about the racial demographics of individuals in the gang database, particularly focusing on the high percentage of African Americans and people of …
1:22:59
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75 sec
Questioning the effectiveness of the gang database in preventing shootings
Council Member Stevens challenges the NYPD on the effectiveness of the gang database in preventing shootings, given the continued occurrence of gun violence in communities of color. The exchange becomes …
1:24:15
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43 sec
Request for specific data on shootings prevented by the database
Council Member Stevens presses NYPD officials for concrete data on the number of shootings prevented by the gang database. The officials struggle to provide specific numbers, leading to a tense …
1:24:58
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61 sec
NYPD example of using the database to address gang violence in the Bronx
NYPD Chief Lipetri provides an example from the 40th Precinct in the Bronx to illustrate how the gang database is used to address violence. The council member interrupts, expressing dissatisfaction …
1:25:58
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132 sec
Questions about inclusion of other known gangs in the database
Council Member Stevens questions the NYPD about the inclusion of other known gangs, such as Chinese-American gangs and the 'five families,' in the gang database. This leads to a debate …
1:28:11
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84 sec
Discussion on sharing database information with other city agencies
NYPD officials explain why they don't share gang database information with other city agencies, citing potential backlash from the City Council. Council Member Stevens argues that this lack of sharing …
1:29:34
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45 sec
Detailed example of using the database for strategic deployment and gun recovery
NYPD Chief Lipetri provides a detailed example of how the gang database was used for strategic deployment in Northern Manhattan, leading to arrests and gun recoveries. Council Member Stevens interrupts …
1:30:19
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3 min
Debate over the necessity of the database versus other investigative tools
Council Member Stevens argues that the NYPD has other effective tools for crime-solving and that the gang database is unnecessary. She emphasizes the need to restore community trust and questions …
1:33:25
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38 sec
Explanation of gang shooting culture and the importance of rapid response
NYPD Assistant Chief Savino explains the culture of gang shootings, emphasizing their contagious nature and the need for rapid police response. He highlights the dangerous 'on-site' environment created by gang …
1:34:03
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46 sec
Concluding arguments about community trust and alternative policing strategies
Council Member Stevens concludes her arguments by emphasizing the need for alternative policing strategies and the importance of restoring community trust. She reiterates that the NYPD has other effective tools …
1:34:49
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53 sec
Closing remarks on poverty, societal conditions, and adequacy of current policing tools
Council Member Yusef Salaam offers closing remarks that broaden the discussion to include societal factors such as poverty and their impact on crime. He emphasizes the need for a more …
1:35:45
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73 sec
Council Member Cabán's remarks on DNA collection and constitutional rights
Council Member Tiffany Cabán opens with remarks criticizing exceptions for DNA collection from juveniles in serious crimes, emphasizing that constitutional rights should be protected regardless of the charge. She also …
1:37:01
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124 sec
Questions about independent evidence supporting the gang database's effectiveness
Council Member Cabán questions NYPD officials about independent, peer-reviewed evidence showing that the gang database directly contributes to reductions in violent crime. The NYPD admits to not having conducted or …
1:38:52
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45 sec
Inquiry about the cost of maintaining the gang database
Council Member Cabán inquires about the financial costs associated with maintaining the gang database, including computing costs and staff time. NYPD officials indicate that the database is part of their …
1:39:36
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26 sec
Discussion on surveillance of individuals in the gang database
Council Member Cabán questions NYPD officials about whether individuals in the gang database are subject to increased surveillance, including monitoring of their social media. The NYPD denies general surveillance but …
1:40:03
·
70 sec
Debate over criminal activity requirements for database inclusion
Council Member Cabán and NYPD officials engage in a heated exchange about the criteria for inclusion in the gang database, particularly focusing on whether criminal convictions are necessary and the …
1:41:13
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54 sec
Role of school safety officers in recommending additions to the gang database
Council Member Cabán inquires about the involvement of school safety officers in recommending young people for inclusion in the gang database. NYPD officials explain that school safety officers can be …
1:42:06
·
42 sec
Clarification on criteria for gang database entry
A tense exchange occurs between Council Member Cabán and NYPD officials as they clarify the specific criteria for entering individuals into the gang database, particularly focusing on the role of …
1:42:49
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127 sec
Council Member Ariola's opening statement on public safety and DNA evidence collection
Council Member Ariola expresses concern about the direction of public safety in the city and defends the use of DNA evidence in investigations. She argues that DNA evidence is subject …
1:45:07
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80 sec
Brief discussion on renaming the NYPD's gang database
Council Member Ariola raises the question of renaming the gang database and its potential impact. This leads to a brief exchange about the significance of the database's name.
1:46:32
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35 sec
NYPD's community affairs programs and youth outreach initiatives
Assistant Commissioner Alden Foster details the NYPD's extensive community affairs and youth outreach programs. He emphasizes the department's efforts to engage with young people and prevent them from getting into …
1:47:07
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117 sec
Changes and reductions in the NYPD's gang database
Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber explains the significant changes made to the NYPD's gang database following a Department of Investigation (DOI) report in 2023. He emphasizes improvements in accuracy, documentation, and …
1:49:04
·
67 sec
Potential consequences of Intro 798 on NYPD officers
Council Member Ariola raises concerns about the potential consequences of Intro 798, which would subject NYPD officers to financial penalties and civil litigation for using the gang database. - Ariola …
1:50:12
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18 sec
NYPD's arguments against eliminating the gang database
Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber presents several arguments against eliminating the NYPD's gang database. He emphasizes the potential negative consequences of removing this tool for law enforcement and public safety. - …
1:50:31
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123 sec
Safeguards and criteria for inclusion in the NYPD's gang database
Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber explains the stringent safeguards and criteria in place for including individuals in the NYPD's gang database. He emphasizes the improvements made to the system following critiques …
1:52:34
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3 min
Statistics on additions and removals from the NYPD's gang database
Chief Michael Lipetri provides recent statistics on additions to and removals from the NYPD's gang database, demonstrating a trend of more removals than additions. - In 2023, 201 individuals were …
1:55:44
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23 sec
Council Member Ariola's commendation of NYPD's work in crime reduction
Council Member Joann Ariola concludes her remarks by commending the NYPD for their work in reducing crime, despite challenges posed by certain legislative actions. - Ariola notes that crime reduction …
1:56:08
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40 sec
Clarification of gang database addition and removal numbers
Council Member Yusef Salaam requests clarification on the numbers of additions to and removals from the NYPD's gang database. Chief Michael Lipetri restates and expands on the statistics. - Lipetri …
1:56:48
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42 sec
Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of the gang database for law enforcement
Council Member Robert F. Holden expresses strong support for the NYPD's use of the gang database, emphasizing its crucial role in law enforcement and crime prevention. He argues that the …
1:57:32
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113 sec
NYPD officials discuss emerging gang threats and the importance of intelligence gathering
NYPD officials, including Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber and Assistant Chief Jason Savino, discuss the emerging threat of new gangs, particularly Tren de Aragua, and emphasize the critical need for intelligence …
1:59:25
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4 min
NYPD Chief and Council Member discuss recent gang violence incidents and impact on innocent victims
NYPD Chief Michael Lipetri and Council Member Robert F. Holden discuss recent incidents of gang violence in Southeast Queens, emphasizing the impact on innocent bystanders and the importance of the …
2:03:44
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59 sec
Council Member Vickie Paladino voices strong support for NYPD's gang database
Council Member Vickie Paladino delivers a passionate speech in support of the NYPD's gang database, praising the department's work and criticizing efforts to eliminate the database. She emphasizes the importance …
2:04:54
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4 min
Constitutionality of DNA collection from minors
Council Member Inna Vernikov inquires about the constitutionality of DNA collection from minors prior to arrest. Michael Gerber, Deputy Commissioner of Legal Matters for the NYPD, explains that it can …
2:09:48
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65 sec
Importance of DNA evidence in securing convictions
Council Member Inna Vernikov asks about the importance of DNA evidence in securing convictions. Chief Michael Lipetri of Crime Control Strategies explains the crucial role of DNA in various types …
2:10:53
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64 sec
Impact of Intro 125 on DNA collection from juveniles
Council Member Inna Vernikov inquires about the potential impact of Intro 125 on DNA collection from juveniles, particularly regarding parental or attorney cooperation. Chief Michael Lipetri responds cautiously. - Lipetri …
2:11:56
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45 sec
Impact of proposed bills on combating gun violence
Council Member Inna Vernikov asks about the impact of the proposed bills on the NYPD's ability to combat gun violence. Chief Michael Lipetri emphasizes the crucial role of the criminal …
2:12:42
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98 sec
Potential effects on federal prosecution of gangs
Council Member Inna Vernikov inquires about the potential impact of the proposed bills on the federal government's ability to prosecute criminal gangs under RICO. Chief Michael Lipetri provides a cautious …
2:14:19
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62 sec
Consequences of eliminating the gang database
Council Member Inna Vernikov asks about the consequences of Intro 798, particularly its impact on illegal migrants in the gang database. NYPD representatives Michael Gerber and Michael Lipetri explain the …
2:15:22
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44 sec
Gang database inclusion and parental notification procedures
Council Member Rita C. Joseph questions NYPD officials about the inclusion of juveniles in the gang database and the process of notifying parents. The NYPD admits to implementation challenges with …
2:16:07
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6 min
NYPD youth intervention programs and their effectiveness
Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about NYPD intervention programs for youth who have experienced gun violence. Assistant Commissioner Alden Foster describes various initiatives and partnerships aimed at supporting and …
2:22:12
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57 sec
Role of school safety agents in youth programs and community engagement
Council Member Rita C. Joseph questions the role of school safety agents in youth programs and community engagement. Assistant Commissioner Alden Foster explains the importance of school safety agents in …
2:23:09
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120 sec
Data collection and evaluation of youth program effectiveness
Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about data collection and evaluation methods for assessing the effectiveness of NYPD youth programs. Assistant Commissioner Alden Foster provides limited information on current practices …
2:25:09
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14 sec
Council Member Williams acknowledges NYPD's participation in youth employment programs
Council Member Jumaane Williams briefly commends the NYPD for their consistent involvement in the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). He notes that the NYPD was historically one of the highest …
2:25:40
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12 sec
Council Member Williams engages audience on impact of gun violence and community perspectives
Council Member Jumaane Williams engages the audience to highlight the impact of gun violence on communities and critiques how victims are often used to justify harmful policies. He emphasizes the …
2:25:52
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73 sec
Council Member Williams questions Chief Lipetri on percentage of gang-related shootings
Council Member Jumaane Williams engages in a brief Q&A with NYPD Chief Michael Lipetri about the percentage of shootings related to gang activity. Lipetri confirms his belief that about 65-75% …
2:27:06
·
28 sec
Council Member Williams questions effectiveness of gang database in reducing shootings
Council Member Jumaane Williams questions the effectiveness of the NYPD's gang database in reducing gang-related shootings. He points out that if the percentage of gang-related shootings has remained high over …
2:27:34
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32 sec
Heated exchange between Council Member Williams and NYPD officials on understanding community violence
A tense exchange erupts between Council Member Jumaane Williams and NYPD officials over who truly understands and cares about victims of violence in affected communities. Williams strongly objects to the …
2:28:06
·
45 sec
Council Member Williams addresses generational trauma and community needs beyond arrests
Council Member Jumaane Williams discusses the generational trauma affecting communities plagued by violence and criticizes the overreliance on arrests as a solution. He emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive …
2:28:58
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42 sec
Council Member Williams questions impact of eliminating gang database on collaborative policing
Council Member Jumaane Williams questions NYPD officials about the potential impact of eliminating the gang database on collaborative policing efforts, particularly the Ceasefire program. He challenges the assertion that the …
2:29:39
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55 sec
Deputy Commissioner Gerber explains use of gang database in Ceasefire program
Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber provides a detailed explanation of how the NYPD uses the gang database in the Ceasefire program. He emphasizes the importance of the database in identifying crew …
2:30:34
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86 sec
Council Member Williams and Deputy Commissioner Gerber debate necessity of centralized gang tracking
Council Member Jumaane Williams and Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber engage in a debate about the necessity of a centralized gang tracking system. Williams questions the need for the database, while …
2:32:00
·
100 sec
Council Member Williams critiques law enforcement approach and advocates for alternative violence prevention strategies
Council Member Jumaane Williams delivers closing remarks critiquing the current law enforcement approach to addressing violence in certain communities. He advocates for alternative approaches to violence prevention and building community …
2:33:40
·
173 sec
NYPD's handling of ICE requests for criminal group database information
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about how the NYPD would handle requests from ICE or other federal immigration authorities for information from the criminal group database. Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerber …
2:36:39
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171 sec
Definition and criteria for criminal group database inclusion
Council Member Yusef Salaam asks about the NYPD's definition of criminal groups for database inclusion and the criteria distinguishing criminal group involvement from social associations. NYPD officials explain the process …
2:39:31
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3 min
Clarification on residence-based inclusion in the criminal group database
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires whether individuals are ever added to the criminal group database solely based on where they live. NYPD officials emphatically deny this practice and explain recent …
2:43:10
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101 sec
Statistics on criminal records of individuals in the database
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the percentage of individuals in the criminal group database who have no criminal record. Chief Lipetri provides various statistics about the criminal history of …
2:44:52
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55 sec
Brief mention of information sharing with external agencies
Council Member Yusef Salaam begins to ask about information sharing from the criminal group database with external agencies but realizes the question has already been addressed earlier in the session. …
2:46:05
·
19 sec
Council member inquires about NYPD Community Affairs Bureau programs
Council Member Nantasha Williams asks Assistant Commissioner Alden Foster about the programs run by the NYPD's Community Affairs Bureau. Foster provides an overview of their main initiatives, including the Explorers …
2:46:25
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79 sec
Council member critiques funding and resources for NYPD Community Affairs Bureau
Council Member Nantasha Williams expresses concern about the inadequate funding and resources allocated to the NYPD's Community Affairs Bureau. She highlights the discrepancy between the importance of the bureau's work …
2:47:45
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123 sec
Council member critiques effectiveness of NYPD Community Affairs Bureau approach
Council Member Nantasha Williams criticizes the NYPD's approach to community policing through the Community Affairs Bureau. She argues that the department's resource allocation doesn't align with its stated priorities for …
2:49:48
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79 sec
Council member raises concerns about NYPD program consistency and target audience
Council Member Nantasha Williams expresses concerns about the consistency of NYPD community programs across the city and questions whether these programs are reaching the intended audience. She specifically focuses on …
2:51:08
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68 sec
Council Member Ariola critiques opposition to gang database and questions community organization involvement
Council Member Joann Ariola strongly criticizes the idea of dissolving the gang database and reducing police presence, arguing that this goes against what community members actually want. She emphasizes the …
2:52:32
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125 sec
Council Member Stevens on community policing and her role
Council Member Althea V. Stevens expresses her perspective on community policing and her commitment to finding solutions that benefit everyone. She emphasizes her experience in youth work and her willingness …
2:54:42
·
73 sec
Debate on the necessity and effectiveness of the criminal group database
Council Member Stevens and NYPD officials engage in a heated debate about the necessity and effectiveness of the criminal group database. While NYPD officials defend it as a crucial tool …
2:55:55
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85 sec
NYPD's social media monitoring practices and policies
Council Member Stevens inquires about NYPD's social media monitoring practices, focusing on how accounts are identified, reviewed, and what policies govern this online monitoring. NYPD officials explain their approach to …
2:57:20
·
147 sec
Clarification on active and inactive status in the criminal group database
Council Member Stevens seeks clarification on the difference between active and inactive status in the criminal group database. NYPD officials explain the process of removing individuals from the database and …
2:59:48
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72 sec
Final remarks on resource allocation and community needs
Council Member Stevens concludes with remarks on resource allocation and specific community needs, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues alongside law enforcement concerns. - Stevens clarifies that the council …
3:00:59
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30 sec
Testimony by Craig Lewis on NYPD's Gang Database
Craig Lewis, a member of the public, testifies against the NYPD's gang database, arguing that it unfairly targets individuals who may not be committing crimes and can lead to wrongful …
3:04:06
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133 sec
Testimony by Babe Howell, Professor at CUNY School of Law, on NYPD's Gang Database
Professor Babe Howell from CUNY School of Law provides testimony criticizing the NYPD's gang database, highlighting its disproportionate impact on Black and Latino communities and arguing for its abolition. She …
3:06:26
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143 sec
Testimony by Anthony Posada, Supervising Attorney of Legal Aid Society's Community Justice Unit, on NYPD's Gang Database
Anthony Posada, representing the Legal Aid Society, testifies against the NYPD's gang database, arguing that it does not enhance public safety and disproportionately targets Black and Latino youth. He advocates …
3:08:56
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126 sec
Testimony by Aaliyah Guillory-Nickens, Campaign Organizer at Youth Represent
Aaliyah Guillory-Nickens, representing Youth Represent, testified against the NYPD's gang database, arguing that it disproportionately targets Black and Latino youth without improving public safety. She emphasized the need for community …
3:11:07
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144 sec
Testimony by Victor Dempsey, Community Organizer and Advocate, on NYPD's Gang Database
Victor Dempsey, a community organizer and advocate, testified in support of abolishing the NYPD's gang database. He argued that the database disproportionately targets Black and Brown youth, lacks transparency and …
3:13:36
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150 sec
Council Member Salaam asks about alternatives to NYPD's criminal tracking methods
Council Member Yusef Salaam poses a question to the panel about alternative methods for the NYPD to track criminal associations or organized criminal activity. This question sets the stage for …
3:16:06
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25 sec
Victor Dempsey advocates for direct services as an alternative to criminalization
Victor Dempsey, a community organizer and former gang member, argues that direct services are the alternative to criminalization and the gang database. He emphasizes the importance of community-specific solutions and …
3:16:31
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116 sec
Aaliyah Guillory-Nickens highlights trust issues between police and communities
Aaliyah Guillory-Nickens, a campaign organizer for Youth Represent, emphasizes the broken trust between police and communities as a fundamental issue preventing effective policing and community engagement. - Guillory-Nickens argues that …
3:18:28
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61 sec
Anthony Posada criticizes the Ceasefire program and police intimidation tactics
Anthony Posada, a supervising attorney at the Legal Aid Society, criticizes the Ceasefire program and police intimidation tactics associated with the gang database. He argues for community-based solutions and credible …
3:19:32
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93 sec
Professor Babe Howell expresses concerns about the gang database's size and misuse
Professor Babe Howell from CUNY School of Law raises concerns about the size of the gang database and its potential for misuse. She argues that maintaining such a large database …
3:21:09
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121 sec
Craig Lewis shares his personal experience with the gang database's impact
Craig Lewis, a member of the public and directly impacted individual from The Bronx 120 case, shares his personal experience with the gang database and its negative impact on his …
3:23:13
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79 sec
Council Member Stevens and Anthony Posada discuss real-world impacts of the gang database
Council Member Althea V. Stevens initiates a discussion about the real-world impacts of the gang database beyond police use. Anthony Posada responds with an example of how the database affects …
3:24:38
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3 min
Victor Dempsey describes the community-wide impact of gang raids and the database
Victor Dempsey elaborates on the community-wide impact of gang raids and the database, emphasizing how entire families and neighborhoods are affected by these law enforcement actions. - Dempsey describes attending …
3:28:14
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120 sec
Effects of gang allegations in courtrooms and on youth programs discussed
Council Member Althea V. Stevens and Professor Babe Howell discuss the effects of gang allegations in courtrooms and on youth programs, highlighting how these labels impact legal proceedings and opportunities …
3:30:15
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162 sec
Legal recourse for those affected by the gang database discussed
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about legal recourse for individuals affected by the gang database, including those indirectly impacted. Panelists respond, emphasizing the limited options available and the need for …
3:33:00
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7 min
Council Member Salaam concludes current panel and introduces the next
Council Member Yusef Salaam concludes the current panel discussion and introduces the next panel on civil liberties and civil rights. He provides instructions for testimony submission and time limits for …
3:40:23
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78 sec
Testimony by Yasmine Farhang, Director of Advocacy at Immigrant Defense Project
Yasmine Farhang, representing the Immigrant Defense Project, testifies in support of Intro 798 to abolish the NYPD's criminal group database. She highlights the database's harmful impact on immigrant communities and …
3:41:46
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3 min
Testimony by Jason Taper, Legal Fellow at Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.) on NYPD's Gang Database
Jason Taper from the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.) testifies in support of Introduction 798, which would abolish the NYPD's gang database. He argues that the database is racist, inaccurate, …
3:45:45
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121 sec
Testimony by Celine Zhu, Civil Rights Attorney at Center for Constitutional Rights, on NYPD's Gang Database
Celine Zhu, a civil rights attorney from the Center for Constitutional Rights, testifies in support of Intro 798, urging the city council to pass legislation to abolish the NYPD's gang …
3:47:51
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4 min
Testimony by Keli Young, State Policy Advocate at Innocence Project, on NYPD's Gang Database
Keli Young from the Innocence Project testifies in support of Intro 798, which would abolish NYPD's gang database. She argues that the database serves as a catalyst for wrongful convictions …
3:52:22
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144 sec
Testimony by David Moss, Legal Fellow at Legal Defense Fund
David Moss, representing the Legal Defense Fund, testifies in favor of Intro 798, which would abolish the NYPD's criminal group database. He argues that the database relies on biased information, …
3:54:50
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171 sec
Testimony by Ashanti Baptiste, Community Organizer from Legal Aid Society Community Justice Unit
Ashanti Baptiste, a community organizer with the Legal Aid Society Community Justice Unit, testifies about the negative impacts of the NYPD's gang database on Black youth and communities. She argues …
3:59:42
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152 sec
Testimony by Scott Foletta, Interim Managing Attorney of Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem on NYPD's Gang Database and Its Impact on Immigrants
Scott Foletta, representing the Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem, testifies about the dangers of the NYPD's gang database for immigrant New Yorkers. He highlights how ICE has used gang allegations …
4:02:20
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131 sec
Testimony by Talia Kamran, Staff Attorney at Brooklyn Defender Services Seizure and Surveillance Defense Project
Talia Kamran, representing Brooklyn Defender Services, strongly urges the council to pass Intro 798 to abolish the NYPD's gang database. She argues that the database leads to profile-based policing, harsher …
4:04:38
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136 sec
Testimony by David Siffert, Board Member of Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club on NYPD Criminal Group Database
David Siffert, representing the Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club, testifies in support of Intro 798 to abolish the NYPD's criminal group database. He highlights the disproportionate impact of law enforcement …
4:07:50
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154 sec
Testimony by Pilar DeJesus, Senior Advocacy Coordinator at TakeRoot Justice
Pilar DeJesus, representing TakeRoot Justice, strongly advocates for the abolition of the NYPD gang database, arguing that it disproportionately targets and criminalizes Black and Latino youth. She emphasizes that the …
4:10:31
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133 sec
Testimony by Christina Chaise, Advocacy Coordinator at TakeRoot Justice
Christina Chaise, a lifelong NYC resident and NYCHA tenant, testifies in support of abolishing the NYPD's gang database. She shares personal experiences of living under surveillance in public housing and …
4:12:50
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162 sec
Testimony by Adam Friedland, Member of the Public
Adam Friedland, a member of the public, offers an impromptu and heartfelt testimony expressing his support for the committee's work, particularly in standing up for children. He abandons his prepared …
4:16:40
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124 sec
Testimony by Sharon Brown on Gang Databases and Public Safety
Sharon Brown provides testimony on gang databases and public safety, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and unbiased criteria in database implementation. She argues for including Palestinians in gang databases and …
4:18:48
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142 sec
Testimony by Emily YueXin Miller, Member of the Public
Emily YueXin Miller, a community leader and long-time Manhattan resident, shares her personal experiences with racial profiling and discrimination, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues in New York City's …
4:21:15
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3 min
Testimony by Yvonne, Member of the Public
Yvonne, a member of the public, testifies about a long-standing stalking issue she has been facing since 2006. She describes health problems she attributes to harassment, difficulties in getting help …
4:25:11
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3 min
Testimony by Lisa Freeman, Attorney from Legal Aid Society, on DNA Collection from Minors
Lisa Freeman from the Legal Aid Society testifies about Intro 125, which concerns the collection of DNA from minors without parental consent. She supports the bill but suggests amendments, emphasizing …
4:28:56
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150 sec
Testimony by Tanesha Grant, Executive Director of Parent Supporting Parents New York, on NYPD's Gang Database and DNA Collection
Tanesha Grant, Executive Director of Parent Supporting Parents New York, expressed strong support for Intro 798 and Intro 125, criticizing the NYPD's gang database as a tool for racial profiling …
4:31:38
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99 sec
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on NYPD Gang Database Abolition Bill
Christopher Leon Johnson testifies in opposition to the gang database abolition bill, arguing that it only benefits corrupt nonprofits and is counterproductive to addressing crime in New York City. He …
4:33:45
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126 sec