Rabb condemns Penn’s use of police to raid students; calls for investigation
Rep. Christopher M. Rabb October 31, 2024 | 4:29 PM
HARRISBURG, Oct. 31 – State Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Phila., release the following statement on the University of Pennsylvania’s recent use of the university police force to raid the homes of students:
“As a Penn alumnus, I was horrified to learn that such a shocking and aggressive display of force occurred on Oct. 18.
“I stand firmly in support of a formal and public investigation into the actions taken by the Penn Police, particularly those of Kathleen Shields Anderson, vice president of the Division of Public Safety, Detective Paul Guercio, and the officers involved in the raid. The alarming use of excessive force against these students is unacceptable and demands accountability.
“The escalation to armed tactical units in a situation involving nonviolent student protestors is deeply concerning to me, especially as this police brutality seems to have been authorized due to ideological motives. As we near the 40-year anniversary of the tragic MOVE bombing -- where excessive force and a lack of accountability led to devastating consequences for the West Philadelphia community -- we must learn from the misdeeds and missteps of the past to inform appropriate policies and protocols that protect all those who wish to express their First Amendment rights without fear of reprisal.
“We must ensure that our law enforcement agencies operate with transparency, oversight and respect for the community they serve. This incident raises critical questions about the policies and practices of the Penn Police and their alignment with the values of safety and respect for civil liberties.
“I urge the University of Pennsylvania administration to take this matter seriously and commit to a thorough and public investigation that prioritizes the voices of students and community members. We cannot allow the intimidation of peaceful protestors to become normalized.
“Our commitment to justice and accountability must guide our response. I look forward to a timely and appropriate response from this administration.”