This is a petition for an investigation of the VBPD

This is a petition for an investigation of the VBPD

Started
June 5, 2020
Petition to
VB Mayor Bobby Dyer and 2 others
Signatures: 1,543Next Goal: 2,500
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Why this petition matters

Started by Tyler Woodard

To whom it may concern,

     My name is Brendan Woodard. I write this letter in an attempt to speak for my fellow citizens, and to come together to uncover the truth under an appalling event, and seek justice for those involved.

     Myself and hundreds others were in attendance of the Black Lives Matter peaceful protest Sunday evening, May 31st, at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. I have told the story of what I personally experienced to other outlets, and would happily recount them for those who would listen, but today I come to you about one instance in particular. 

     Around the time of 10pm protestors were gathered at the intersection of 5th and Pacific Ave.The protest to this point had remained strong and peaceful, with the worst offense being a few errantly tossed water bottles, and though the protesters were indeed gathered around a police vehicle, at no time were the drivers physically in danger. The situation only became escalated as multiple other squad cars began to attempt to push through the crowd with their vehicles, immediately galvanizing some in the crowd to violence, and firmly shifting the tone and discourse for the rest of the evening. 

     We believe this is a blatant and disturbing escalation of force, and demand a full investigation into the incident and the officers involved, as well as a statement outlining plans for policy to prevent this from happening in the future.. There were multiple helicopters above at the time, in addition to the body and dashboard cameras of the officers, and the multiple protestors recording or streaming live, which we believe should provide more than enough context to pursue disciplinary action.

     A similar incident is currently under investigation in New York City, and I for one hope that the city of Virginia Beach cares as much for their citizens, and for truth and justice to be paramount above all other issues. We understand that this is a time of great tension in our city and in our nation, but at no time should an officer of the law use such excessive force unless all other measures are completely exhausted.

     The citizens of Virginia beach eagerly await a swift response and a course of action to look into these issues fully and objectively. May we all come out of this a stronger and more peaceful community, that builds itself on the principles of truth and decency, towards a better future for us all.

Sincerely, 

The citizens of Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, and Virginia as a whole

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Signatures: 1,543Next Goal: 2,500
Support now
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Decision Makers

  • VB Mayor Bobby Dyer
  • VB City Council
  • VB Chief of Police Anthony Zucaro Jr.