Donald Trump is receiving some pointed criticism after a speech in Brentwood, N.Y. on Friday.
During his speech to members of law enforcement, President Trump took the opportunity to encourage police officers not to be "too nice" when dealing with suspects they are arresting. At one point he stated:
"Like when you guys put somebody in the car and you're protecting their head... you can take that hand away, OK?"
People criticized the speech and the officers who applauded Trump's suggestion almost immediately.
HAHAHAH PROTECT AND SERVE EXCEPT WHEN YOU THINK MAYBE SOMEONE DID SOMETHING WRONG THEN HURT THEM HAHAHAHA THIS IS FINE https://t.co/XHrYkTqXmE
— Hank Green 🐢 (@hankgreen) July 28, 2017
Is it just me, but I'm not seeing a lot of minority Police Officers during this speech. And, why are they clapping? https://t.co/M22G4Vya9N
— 🖕🏻Aunt Crabby 🖕🏻 (@DearAuntCrabby) July 29, 2017
Even officers spoke out publicly against the message.
I'm a cop.
— Ben Tobias (@GPDBenTobias) July 28, 2017
I do not agree with or condone @POTUS remarks today on police brutality.
Those that applauded and cheered should be ashamed.
Tempe Police do not condone "roughing up" suspects or any person- we protect and serve all- true leadership demands it!
— Sylvia Moir (@ChiefMoir) July 29, 2017
And things have ramped up from there. Entire departments are now speaking out against Trump's words.
The @POTUS made remarks today that endorsed and condoned police brutality.
— Gainesville Police (@GainesvillePD) July 29, 2017
GPD rejects these remarks and continues to serve with respect.
As a department, we do not and will not tolerate roughing up of prisoners.
— Suffolk County PD (@SCPDHq) July 28, 2017
#NOPD Chief Michael Harrison statement issued 7/29 re: recent comments by President Trump on police work. pic.twitter.com/0Cn1fNBUy8
— NOPD (@NOPDNews) July 30, 2017
But it was the NYPD's response distancing itself from the President that sent the strongest message and Twitter took notice.
NYPD to DJT: Drop dead. pic.twitter.com/PLuGVJnda1
— Jay Rosen (@jayrosen_nyu) July 30, 2017
Sincere thanks to those in law enforcement with the decency to stand against Trump. Congress can take a lesson. https://t.co/7oTJ2tuHHk
— Dr. DaShanne Stokes (@DaShanneStokes) July 30, 2017
Rachel pointed out the difference in tone between this condemnation and others.
this seems stronger than some of the other police statements on Trump. Possibly because NYPD knows they have problems on this
— Rachel Joy Larris (@RachelLarris) July 30, 2017
While many people are applauding and thanking the NYPD for this statement, not everyone is convinced that there is any authenticity there.
No, NYPD needs to be able to point to this next time there's a brutality complaint. This is CYA not substantive.
— Marc (@webmarc) July 30, 2017
No one doubted the authenticity of the jab NYC Mayor Bill DeBlasio took at Trump, however.
The NYPD making NYC the safest big city in America is a historic accomplishment – words that won't ever be associated with @realDonaldTrump.
— Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) July 28, 2017
H/T: Business Insider, Twitter
