Assemblywoman Britnee N. Timberlake Holds Press Conference Calling For An Independent Investigation Whenever A Person Dies in Police Custody

EAST ORANGE, NJ - The 34th Legislative District Assemblywoman, Britnee N. Timberlake hosted a press conference regarding legislation she sponsored (Bill A3115) that calls for an independent investigation be conducted whenever a person dies in police custody or during and encounter with law enforcement.

Timberlake also took that occasion to reflect on the recent death of Jameek Lowery of Paterson. Lowery is a recent casualty who died while in police custody. Timberlake (by way of media) asked Governor Murphy to sign the bill into law, offering remarks regarding the bill and Jameek Lowery’s death.

”It is with a heavy heart that I send my deepest condolences to the family of Jameek Lowery. As a mother of a son, I mourn with Jameek's mother and pray the family receives the answers they need, the fairness in justice they seek, the independent investigation they deserve, and peace that comes from God alone. Jameek Lowery's unfortunate untimely death is now a part of many others nationwide driving the need for the bill I sponsored in the Assembly (A3115) to be signed into law.”, states Timberlake.

Joining the Assemblywoman were members of the local area clergy, social organizations, educators and citizens united to support the effort to get the Governor to sign the legislation into law.

The bill has gained the support of the ACLU, the People’s Organization for Progress, The New Jersey State NAACP, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), NJ Working Families, Faith in New Jersey (FINJ), and other organizations throughout the state.

The bill has passed both the Senate and the Assembly and is now on the desk of the Governor awaiting his signature.

Synopsis of Bill A3115

Provides that AG handle investigation and prosecution of crime involving person’s death by law enforcement officer while acting in officer’s official capacity or while in custody; requires trial in venue outside county where incident occurred.

Link to Article