The footage of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald’s final moments was released yesterday. Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) released the following statement:

“The release of the footage of Laquan McDonald’s final moments ignited a number of emotions among people. Fear, anger and confusion were felt throughout the city.

People need to speak up. These are our communities. Police brutality and excessive force have no place in them.

Earlier this year, I supported legislation that requires police-involved deaths to be investigated and sets up funding and protocols for the use of body cameras. Also, I called for an investigation of police practices at the Homan Square detention facility.

But we must continue to move forward.

There are still many unanswered questions surrounding Laquan’s murder. The release of this video shouldn’t have required a court order. It appears the charges against Officer Van Dyke are justified. The 13-month delay in getting it, however, is not.

Law enforcement is meant to serve and protect the people. Incidents like this do nothing to build the trust between officers and the community. I urge people to continue letting their voices be heard and continue working to heal Chicago.”

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