City of Bloomington Commission on Status of Black Males Announces Brochure on Encounters with Law Enforcement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2014

For additional information, please contact:

Greg Tourner, Chair, City of Bloomington Commission on the Status of Black Males, 361.8377

Craig Brenner, Special Projects Coordinator, City of Bloomington Department of Community and Family Resources, 349.3471, brennerc@bloomington.in.gov

City of Bloomington Commission on Status of Black Males Announces Brochure on Encounters with Law Enforcement

Bloomington, Ind. - The City of Bloomington Commission on the Status of Black Males has created a brochure concerning police relations entitled "Every Day Encounters with Police." The brochure, made in collaboration with the Bloomington Police Department, was created to help foster positive relationships between citizens and law enforcement.

"The Commission appreciates the assistance of Bloomington Police Chief Mike Diekhoff and Capt. Joe Qualters in creating and reviewing the text," said Commission Chair Greg Tourner. "The document is readily available for all Bloomington citizens. The Commission on the Status of Black Males feels it is important to bring this information to the attention of local young Black males, their parents, teachers, ministers, and mentors as a way to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and citizens."

Because encounters with the criminal justice system can begin at any moment and are often filled with confusion, the brochure may help residents avoid common mistakes that can lead to tensions. The brochure was suggested by author and educator Dr. John McCluskey, retired Indiana University professor of African American Studies. It is largely the work of Indiana University SPEA Service Corps Fellow Emily Hughes.

"Every Day Encounters with Police" includes sections on getting pulled over while driving, vehicle searches, submitting to alcohol and other testing, and mutual respect, among other topics. The document is available on the City's website at [http://bloomington.in.gov/csbm|/csbm].

For more information contact Special Projects Coordinator Craig Brenner at 349.3471 or brennerc@bloomington.in.gov.

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