One year after the police killing of a Philadelphia man, the city agrees to equip its force with tasers as part of settlement
The city also says officers will be required to wear the less-lethal weapons, and they will be properly trained as part of a larger police reform program costing the city $13.9 million.
Wallace was shot and killed by police while holding a knife on October 26, 2020, just months after the police killing of another Black man, George Floyd, which sparked national debate about police procedures and reform.
“I recognize that this is a very difficult time for the family of Walter Wallace, Jr. and for the entire city of Philadelphia. The killing of Mr. Wallace, Jr. was painful and traumatic for many Philadelphians. This tragic and unsettling incident, along with last year’s protests, underscored the urgency of many important reforms such as mental health training and crisis response resources. I am committed to making lasting reforms that will ensure that all Philadelphians have the safety and available supports that they deserve,” Mayor Jim Kenney said in a statement Wednesday.
An officer tells Wallace to “back up,” before opening fire with his pistol.
Shaka Johnson, an attorney for the Wallace family, said Wednesday that the settlement “reflects an acknowledgment that the city must do their part to ensure their officers are equipped with the tools to protect and serve the citizens of Philadelphia. It is our belief, and the sincere hope of the Wallace family that these measures will save lives.”
The settlement will go into effect after gaining expected approval by the Court of Common Pleas.
