RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Local North Carolina law enforcement leaders say accountability, communication and trust will help reduce further the chances for police shootings that escalate into community violence.
Two police chiefs, a sheriff and law enforcement trainer spoke Tuesday at a conference in Raleigh about how to improve police training in light of fatal incidents in other states over the past two years. The event stems from a call by black North Carolina legislators to be proactive in addressing potential training weaknesses.
Hoke County Sheriff Hubert Peterkin says law enforcement leaders must hold their officers responsible for acting appropriately with civilians, but adds citizens also must be held accountable for their actions.
State Rep. Ed Hanes of Winston-Salem called the event the first step toward legislation he hopes will have support statewide.