November 14, 2022
TTaplin@cityofberkeley.info
Councilmember Taplin Statement on Police Misconduct Allegations
I am deeply disturbed and troubled by the recent surfacing of texts exhibiting anti-homeless and
anti-Black racial bias distributed by an officer of the Berkeley Police Department. There can be
zero tolerance for racism, bigotry, and hate anywhere in our city, let alone among the first
responders who interact with our community on a daily basis. This conduct is nothing short of a
breach in public trust, and is beneath the values of our city, community, and the standards of our
Police Department. I have been assured that this matter will be investigated thoroughly.
Here in Berkeley, we are proud of our progressive police reforms and our legacy of robust
civilian oversight. I look forward to working with my colleagues, the Police Accountability Board,
and our new Director of Police Accountability to root out toxic and inimical cultures and practices
from Law Enforcement and to end the era of racist policing.