The Community Actively Seeking Transparency (CAST) is partnering with the nonprofit For Kathy’s Sake to address allegations of allege racially biased treatment by county police. Citizen complains about how the county has conducted and handled citizen complaints date back in some cases as far as ten years, and citizens are now demanding accountability and transparency.
Emphasizing respect and friendliness—as well as its wide influence—CAST hosted its first Forum on Police Accountability on 13 August 2018, with support from organizations such as the Baltimore Civilian Review Board (represented by Jill Muth), the Caucus of African American Leaders (the Honorable Carl Snowden), and the ACLU (Amy Cruice). Also in attendance was Vicki Gipson, candidate for the Anne Arundel County Orphans Court. Several other community leaders sent greetings and support, including Councilman Andrew Pruski, Delegate Mike Rodgers, and Sarah Lacey Councilperson of District 1 (represented by campaign manager Jenese Jones).
In sometimes extremely moving terms, several families offered powerful firsthand testimony about their experiences with what they believe to be a lack of accountability and inaccurate reporting from the Anne Arundel Police Department. Audience members, some of whom were moved to tears, shared their concerns as they learned more about what CAST is and can do. Capital Gazette reporter Joshua Stewart covered the forum and the testimony. Cameras from Fox 45 were also present.
CAST wishes to reach out to all who believe they may have had an unfortunate experience with the AACPD. The aim is to join efforts for all families who believe in effective change for citizens, by citizens. A long-term, more challenging goal is to establish an Anne Arundel County Civilian Review Board.
In CAST’s second public forum, planned speakers will be from the ACLU and NAACP, along with candidates, elected officials, community organizers, and community members who have been affected. The forum will be held Monday 10 September 2018, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the Odenton Library, 1325 Annapolis Rd, Odenton, MD 21113.
Doors open at 5:15 p.m. A light dinner will be served. If you have your own concerns or experiences, please reach out to CAST at 301-456-0769 or thecastAAC@gmail.com.
