National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Addresses Police-Involved Shooting of Black Men Over Weekend

Alexandria, VA. – The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) is concerned with events surrounding the recent officer-involved shootings of two Black men. On August 21st, in Lafayette, Louisiana, Mr. Trayford Pellerin was shot while reportedly armed with a knife. He later died from the gunshot wounds. Just two days later, Mr. Jacob Blake was shot by police officers responding to a domestic incident in Kenosha, Wisconsin. At the time of this statement, Mr. Blake is hospitalized in serious condition. Both incidents are under investigation.

“We, as a nation, should invest our time focusing on implementing solutions. What we need now is action, and NOBLE lives up to our motto: “Justice by Action,” said NOBLE National President Lynda R. Williams. “In June, we issued the “First Four” recommendations for law enforcement agencies. These policy recommendations are just the first phase law enforcement agencies across this country can take as actionable change.”

NOBLE remains committed to changes in policing practices that protect our communities and officers. One change supported by NOBLE is national guidelines on use of force. The national guidelines, enforced through state mandates, would set the standard for use of force by law enforcement ensuring everyone’s safety and always protecting the sanctity of life.

NOBLE also supports national guidelines on investigating use of force incidents, particularly when a member of our community is shot by a law enforcement officer. “Trust and accountability can only be present when there is transparency. Investigations should be unbiased, swift, thorough, and justice served,” said President Williams.

NOBLE will continue to demand justice and push for reforms that improve public safety and address systemic racism. Additionally, these events reinforce the significant work ahead of us as we fight for justice and fair judicial outcomes for all citizens in every community in America. Now is the time for change.

Click here to download NOBLE’s Official Statement on the “First Four.”