Decatur community demands justice for LJ following police custody incident

In a tense and emotional session at Decatur City Hall, community members and council members confronted pressing issues surrounding police conduct and public safety. The meeting, held on April 21, 2025, was marked by passionate testimonies regarding the recent hospitalization of a local man, LJ, who was left unresponsive after an encounter with police.

As the room filled with concerned citizens, one speaker recounted the harrowing details of LJ's condition, noting that he had suffered cardiac arrest for 45 minutes and was now in a medically induced coma. The speaker urged the council to pray for LJ and highlighted the need for justice for others affected by police actions, including the families of Steve Perkins and Jaden. The emotional weight of these testimonies underscored a growing frustration with the police department's handling of mental health crises and the perceived lack of accountability.

The discussion shifted to the clarity of city ordinances, particularly regarding an ad valorem tax proposal. A council member expressed confusion over the language used in the agenda, suggesting that it could mislead citizens about the nature of the tax. This sparked a debate about the need for clearer communication from city officials to ensure that residents fully understand the implications of proposed legislation.

The meeting also addressed the establishment of a police advisory council, which has been delayed due to the absence of a permanent police chief. Council members debated the urgency of forming this body to improve community oversight of police practices. One member volunteered to represent the Third District, emphasizing the importance of transparency and community involvement in policing matters.

As the session progressed, community members voiced their anger and disappointment over the police department's actions, describing them as "rogue" and untrained. They called for immediate reforms to prevent further tragedies and to ensure that police serve and protect all citizens, particularly those from marginalized communities.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and a commitment from attendees to continue advocating for justice and reform. The emotional testimonies and pointed discussions highlighted a community grappling with deep-seated issues of trust and accountability in law enforcement, leaving many wondering what steps will be taken next to address these critical concerns.