“The lawsuit filed today by New York State Attorney Letitia James confirms the painful truth that we have known for years. Members of the NYPD have persistently used excessive force without hesitation or meaningful consequence –  particularly against Black and Brown New Yorkers. It is shameful that peaceful protesters pursuing racial justice experienced unthinkable violence inflicted by those sworn to protect and serve eerily similar to the events that occurred during the Civil Rights Movement. Although a court of law could never erase the trauma or scars, it is a critical step forward in reforming policing tactics that have done more harm than good in our communities. On the eve of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, we can be hopeful that justice will prevail,” said Council Member Farah N. Louis, Vice Co-Chair of the New York City Council Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus.