A coalition of community groups are demanding the City of Fresno establish police accountability and community confidence in the police department. Representatives from 20 grassroots organizations were at Fresno City Hall on February 13th calling for an independent investigation into the beating of a homeless man by a Fresno police officer. Video of the incident has been shown nationwide.

Bill Simon, chairperson of the local chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union - Northern California stated the groups' demands as:

1) An immediate Pattern and Practice Investigation of the Fresno Police Department by the Federal Department of Justice Civil Rights Division
2) The City Council, with the support of the Fresno Police Officers Association, take immediate action to support Mayor Swearengin's direction to the city manager and the Police Chief to establish an IPA
3) The Mayor, City Council Members, Chief of Police, and President of the Fresno Police Officers Association set up and participate in a meeting or series of meetings so that community members can come and voice their concerns
4) Culture and sensitivity training for the Fresno Police Department
5) Full implementation of a Community Based Policing Program

Simon said, “The immediate implementation of all five of these actions is essential both for the protection of the members of the community and for the protection of those police officers who are dedicated to serving the public.”

Videos: Community Groups Press Conference | Police Attack on the Homeless Man