Council And Community Members React To Reed Decision

City, community and faith leaders came together for a press conference to address the decision in the Dreasjon Reed case and called for unity.  Leaders urged peace knowing protests would be happening again.

A civilian grand jury decided to not indicate IMPD Officer DeJoure Mercer who fatally shot Reed after a police chase in May.  City-County Councillor Leroy Robinson said he knows this is a difficult time. 

"Although some may not agree with the decision," Robinson said,  "I would ask that all of us at least respect the decision and the process."

A new effort to lead community conversations to direct systemic changes was announced. City-County Council President Vop Osili said the aim is to connect city, community and law enforcement to build trust and inform reform.

"To listen while those most affected by these divisions in our community, rank and file police officers, crime victims and others," Osili said, "tell us their own stories."

The announcement came at the Fay Biccard Glick Neighborhood Center where Patrice Duckett is executive director. 

"It is time for us to come and love each other as a community and work towards a common goal, for me it’s accountability," Duckett said. 

Councilmembers say they are committed to reform that promotes equity.