Our Voice: Progress in Pasco not reflected in ACLU report

The recent American Civil Liberties Union report criticizing the Pasco Police Department would have been more helpful if it had acknowledged some of the progress that has been made in the community since the tragic police shooting of Antonio Zambrano-Montes a year ago.

That sad day tore Pasco apart, heightening the divide between city officials and the Hispanic community.

Since then, Pasco police have taken steps to improve its relationship with the public and review its policies and procedures. But the report by the ACLU makes no mention of these efforts, and suggests a thorough overhaul of the Pasco Police Department is needed.

It is a shame the ACLU did not talk to Pasco Police Chief Bob Metzger before going public with the group’s recommendations. Pasco has come a long way since Zambrano-Montes was shot by police after throwing rocks at a crowded intersection. The incident was captured by bystanders on cellphones and caused outrage when it hit the Internet.

The three officers involved were not criminally charged in Franklin County, although the U.S. Department of Justice and the state Attorney General’s Office are reviewing the case and that decision.

But in the meantime, Pasco police officials have tried to be more responsive. They requested a Department of Justice review of the city’s policies and training, and that report is expected to be released soon. Pasco also has adopted additional criteria for reviewing use-of-force incidents, which officials hope will improve training for officers.

As far as community relations, the police department began its Coffee with a Cop program last year, which gives people the chance to visit with police officers and talk to them about their concerns. The police department also has added a feature to its website to make it easier for people to file complaints.

These are a few positive steps, and there are others. But in order for Pasco to truly overcome the strife, a collaborative effort between police and members of the Hispanic community is needed. Fortunately, there is a group trying to get that going.

The Latino Civic Alliance has announced plans to form an advisory committee to improve communities’ relationships with law enforcement agencies around the state, including Pasco. Officials with the organization said they will start with about 20 people who include law enforcement, city and county officials, judges and community members.

They plan to begin meeting this summer and want to hold forums in 11 counties, including Benton and Franklin. This is an encouraging idea and we hope it is successful.

Judging by the peaceful protest marking the one-year anniversary of Zambrano-Montes’ death, there is still frustration simmering in the community. And the ACLU report, which failed to recognize the changes made by Pasco police so far, may further that resentment.

But for Pasco to heal, the community must come together. Some progress has been made already, and with a continued effort, there is reason to think more can come.

This story was originally published February 20, 2016 at 11:55 PM with the headline "Our Voice: Progress in Pasco not reflected in ACLU report."