Mayor Hancock publicly addresses Jessie Hernandez incident

This just in from our mayor:

“The death of Jessica Hernandez is tragic, and my prayers are with the young woman’s family members and friends during their time of mourning. My thoughts are also with the police officers who were involved in this incident. This is difficult for our entire community. Let us summon our collective compassion and work together to heal the pain of such a heartbreaking loss.

In the coming weeks, we can expect to hear a number of accounts of what happened in that alley. I encourage everyone to allow for a thorough investigation so that we can understand all the facts. Yes, that will take time. And yes, it is the right thing to do.

I commit this city’s efforts to fairly and justly address this incident. As is protocol, the officers have been placed on administrative leave while the Denver District Attorney’s Office reviews the case to determine if it will bring criminal charges. Following, the Denver Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau, with direct oversight from the Department of Safety and [the Office of the Independent Monitor, OIM], will conduct an investigation into the case to determine if disciplinary action is warranted. The Police Department, Department of Safety, and OIM are also reviewing policies, procedures, and training on shooting at moving vehicles and make recommended changes, if applicable. Once those steps are complete, the Police Department will publicly release the investigation.

I would also like to express my support for the proposed code amendment to strengthen the Office of the Independent Monitor’s investigatory oversight. I believe this step will result in a more coordinated effort between all our safety departments and lead to better outcomes for all.

Together, we have forged a stronger relationship between safety officers and residents by being open, honest and accountable. Time and again, my administration has taken swift steps to address critical matters, and I commit no less than that high standard in this case.”