POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY TASK FORCE BREAKING THE SILENCE

The El Paso Police Department (EPPD) has an extensive, disturbing history of abuse of power and police misconduct practices that have been happening for years with impunity. Their brutality and excessive use of force continue to be rampant, especially against people of color, immigrants, and people with vulnerable mental health living in El Paso.

In the summer of 2020, the BNHR launched the El Paso Police Department Accountability Task Force (EPPD ATF) amid the national outcry for justice and the transformation of policing institutions following the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and many other Black and Brown people at the hands of law enforcement. As a project of BNHR, the EPPD Accountability Task Force calls for an independent civilian-led commission via city ordinance to oversee and overhaul the EPPD. The EPPD Task Force is committed to bringing transparency and accountability to El Paso law enforcement practices and building a peoplecentered policy approach to ensure community safety.

TASK FORCE CO-CHAIRS:

Pastor Michael Grady | Prince of Peace Christian Fellowship

Avemaria Smart | The Links, Incorporated

Diane Williams | Top Ladies of Distinction

MEASURABLE PROGRESS:

The El Paso Police Accountability Task Force not only engaged communities and allies in multiple dialogues, events and actions but was able to substantively engage with the City of El Paso. BNHR Task-Force made recommendations in regard to internal police reform and accountability that are included in the final report that the city’s Cross-Functional Team will present to the City Council.