The Antioch City Council appointed Joseph Mitchell to its Police Oversight Commission amidst ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability in law enforcement. This appointment is significant as the commission is central to police oversight following scandals within the city's police department and under a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Justice. However, residents objected to Mitchell's alleged past racist and anti-LGBTQ+ social media activity, raising doubts about his ability to serve impartially and foster community healing. Activists voiced concerns over his views, arguing they contradict the commission's mission of improving police-community relations.
When you post on social media, you represent that way, that means you think that way, said Payton during Tuesday's city council meeting.
Iâm failing to see that connection. What is healing? What is unifying about somebody with those types of views?
We deserve a commissioner who is unbiased, moderate, and committed to improving relationships between the police and the community.
The commission plays a pivotal role in ensuring police oversight under a 25-page memorandum of understanding between Antioch and the federal body.
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