The INDY also asked about roadblocks/checkpoints and potential racial profiling. Here are my thoughts on the matter:
If checkpoints are being manipulated to racially profile drivers, then that is a gross misuse of a tool which is a public good and such actions have no place in my administration. Checkpoints are instituted to keep people from hurting themselves and others, not as an instrument of racial oppression or intimidation. I would welcome review of the department’s documentation for checkpoints by organizations such as the ACLU because I am committed to justice and transparency.
When it comes to traffic checkpoints, there undoubtedly needs to be a system of checks and balances in place to ensure that checkpoint locations are random and equally dispersed throughout the county. The goal of the checkpoint is to increase the safety of our roads and our communities, and by placing certain formalities in action, checkpoints can offer benefits throughout the entire county, significantly reducing alcohol-related crashes and ultimately saving lives.
Issues:
