Tensions mount after Durham teen's death in police custody

Tensions mount after Durham teen's death in police custody

Summary of article By Paul A. Specht and Mark Schultz

23 November 2013

http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/11/23/3401848/memorial-for-durham-teen-who-died.html

In Durham, North Carolina at least 150 protesters gathered on Friday night to demand answers in the death of Jesus Huerta. On Tuesday night the 17-year-old was shot and killed while in the back seat of a police car. The police department has revealed only that Huerta was arrested for second-degree trespassing.

There have been numerous civilian deaths at the hands of police officers across the state this year. Three of these deaths have occurred in Durham's jurisdiction.

The protesters want the details of the investigation released, the department will not reveal additional details until the State Bureau of Investigation completes an investigation.

The protest on Friday night began peacefully, but when young men in hoodies and masks joined the others the police began using batons and tasers. A few young teens were arrested and a few police cars were damaged.

Although it is unclear what happened in this case, many in the community are weary of the recent tendency to shot first and ask questions later.
Durham City Councilman Eugene Brown, warns, “It almost appears we’re looking at a pattern here, and it’s very sad."

It is unfortunate that the facts are not yet available to the public. Any police department involved in a shooting should reveal what training the officers received and review typical procedures.