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Thursday, September 8, 2011

Statement of Congressman Pierluisi Regarding the Report Issued by the United States Department of Justice

WASHINGTON, DC- “I thank the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice for the diligence and professionalism it has demonstrated in completing its investigation and issuing today’s report, which contains findings and recommendations with respect to the performance of the Puerto Rico Police Department.

Nobody should be pleased that the report has cited our Police Department for a pattern of civil rights violations in connection with the use of excessive force and unlawful searches and seizures. And it is alarming that the Department of Justice has identified a series of systemic and structural problems within the Police Department that undermine its effectiveness.

But what is most important is what will occur, going forward, as a result of the Department of Justice’s findings and recommendations. For the good of Puerto Rico, I hope the report will give rise to a real and sustainable transformation of our Police Department, as well as of the other components of our justice system.

As the report well documents, the systemic and structural deficiencies of the Puerto Rico Police Department date back many years and extend across many local government administrations. Now is the time for all stakeholders to join forces so that the good men and women who protect our security have the training, the supervision and the other tools they need to accomplish their mission within the parameters established by the Puerto Rico Constitution and the U.S. Constitution. I am certain that Governor Fortuño will continue to exercise his leadership to ensure that this occurs.

The first priority in Puerto Rico is, and must be, the fight against crime. Our people want and deserve to live in peace and tranquility. This will require us to continue our efforts to improve and reform our Police Department—and, this time, in an enduring way.”