Reacting to Sterling Brown arrest, city leaders say everyone deserves to be treated with respect

MILWAUKEE -- Members of the Milwaukee Common Council addressed on Thursday morning, May 24 the release of the body camera video tied to the arrest of Milwaukee Bucks' player Sterling Brown. A majority of members made a pledge to do their part in improving police/community relations, and said the incident with Brown reflects a larger issue.

Police were called to a business at 27th and National on Jan. 26 in regards to a parking violation. Brown was parked illegally across two handicapped spaces. During the encounter with police, a Taser was used on Brown. The body camera video shows Brown was not combative toward police. He was arrested on suspicion of resisting arrest, but never charged.

"A very public and embarrassing incident. There are hundreds of encounters like that. I know because I've experienced it myself. We must recognize the historical tensions that exist between minority communities and police departments," said Hamilton.

Hamilton took the lead during theThursday morning news conference.

"We wanted as a council to stand together because we wanted to put the weight of the council behind what it is we're trying to say," said Hamilton.

Hamilton told reporters when it comes to the safety and welfare of the citizens of Milwaukee, all deserve to be treated with respect in interactions with the police department. He said the reason this is difficult is because officers possess an "awesome responsibility" in conducting their work.

Hamilton, with council members standing at his side, demanded answers.

"We're asking what type of discipline is being issued? Who are the officers? What is the process if they end up challenging the disciplinary action? Our commitment with the public, with the police department, with community members is to work on the change," said Hamilton.

Alderwoman Milele Coggs also spoke at the news conference, emphasizing the need for change.

"No more residents of the city of Milwaukee feeling as if they were not treated as human beings by those in authority to protect and serve. I would implore residents and community members to work with us -- because we hear the cries, we share the pain and we recognize the need for change," said Coggs.

Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales has apologized for the incident, but he's held back information on the officers involved. He said Thursday he’s legally barred from naming the officers involved, what discipline they received and what rules they broke.

Alderman have called for transparency.

"I don't think there is anything to gain by not sharing," said Hamilton.

Milwaukee Police Association statement after body camera video release: