Police Reform and Systemic Racism

The American Bar Association hosted a virtual event on police reform with Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) and Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison. They talked about the use of qualified immunity, bridging the gap between police and the communities they serve, efforts to “de-fund the police,” and how consent decrees and the use of “pattern and practice” can be effective tools in reforming police departments. When asked about federal involvement, Senator Scott said that though the federal government does have a role to play, real and effective police reform starts at the local level. close