It is with a heavy heart that we address the serious injury of Police Officer Travis Brown during what began as a peaceful protest in the City of Ferguson. Our thoughts are with Travis, his family, and his colleagues during this difficult time.
For those who may not know Travis, he is the son of a retired St. Louis City officer, a beloved sibling, a devoted father, and an all-around good person. Travis exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and honorable police officer—he is the answer to those who ask, “Where are all the good police officers?”
We fully support the right to peaceful protest and understand the deep pain and frustration that often drive people to take to the streets. This community has endured immense hardship and has bravely called for justice and accountability. However, violence—whether directed at individuals, property, or law enforcement—cannot and should not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The actions of a few who resort to violence undermine the very cause they claim to support. Violence begets more violence and further deepens the divisions we are all striving to heal. Those who incite or excuse such behavior not only endanger police officers but also threaten the safety of peaceful protesters and the community at large. It is essential to hold accountable not only the perpetrators of these violent acts but also those who encourage or condone them.
We call on clergy, political leaders, and civic leaders to stand united in delivering a clear and unequivocal message: violence is never the answer. As a community, we must also reject rhetoric that encourages lawlessness with the expectation of impunity. Such attitudes are counterproductive to the progress we all seek in achieving true police reform and accountability. Only through peace, dialogue, and mutual respect can we hope to move forward.
As we keep Travis and his family in our thoughts and prayers, we urge everyone to reflect on the importance of coming together to ensure that our collective efforts lead to meaningful change rather than further harm.
About The Ethical Society of Police
The Ethical Society of Police (ESOP) was founded in 1972 by African-American officers to address race-based discrimination in the community and within the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. In 2018, the ESOP expanded to include membership for civilian and commissioned employees of law enforcement agencies within St. Louis County.
The Ethical Society of Police is an association of police officers and civilians whose mission is to bridge communications between the historically marginalized communities and law enforcement. The ESOP works to improve: community/police relations, develop policies and programs to reduce crime, elevate the status of minority civilians and police officers, encourage greater minority employment by law enforcement agencies, and increase professionalism in law enforcement. Membership is open to all races, nationalities, religions, political affiliations, sexual orientations and gender identities. For more information about the Ethical Society of Police, visit www.esopstl.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Rachel Brown
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(C) 805-558-7985