On August 20, 2019, NYPD Commissioner James O'Neill addressed the Eric Garner decision, a case that sparked widespread protests and calls for police reform.
Commissioner O'Neill explained that during the struggle between Officer Pantaleo and Mr. Garner, the officer initially used a chokehold, which was not the preferred maneuver, but was acceptable in the initial moments of the struggle. However, the officer maintained the hold after he had the opportunity to use a 'less lethal alternative,' Commissioner O'Neill said.
Commissioner O'Neill acknowledged that he might have made the same mistakes as Officer Pantaleo and expressed regret over the officer's failure to release his grip before it became a chokehold.
Commissioner O'Neill praised the rest of the department, stating that being a police officer is one of the hardest jobs in the world, requiring difficult choices to be made quickly.
He called for unity, urging New Yorkers and police officers to work together to secure safety for all.
Commissioner O'Neill's message was echoed on social media, where he tweeted, 'We recruit from the human race. We're not perfect. But, the next time you're walking down the street and you feel safe, thank the N.Y.P.D.'
