Report Unveils NYPD Misconduct and Excessive Force During 2020 George Floyd Protests

A report by New York City’s Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) revealed that nearly 150 NYPD officers committed misconduct, including excessive force, during the 2020 George Floyd protests. The board found that many disciplined officers received lesser punishment than recommended, while some faced no disciplinary action at all. Over 600 complaints could not be investigated due to officers not being identifiable, as some purposely wore mourning bands over their badges or refused to provide their names.

Of the 321 complaints within CCRB’s jurisdiction, 226 were investigated, with the panel substantiating 269 allegations against 146 officers. Arva Rice, the review board’s chair, stated that unaddressed misconduct would never be reformed. Although the NYPD objects to many characterizations in the report, it claims that most recommendations have already been implemented. The CCRB recommends updated crowd control training, visible officer names and shield numbers, and assessment of tactics during protests.