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  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 28, 2002
PR-044-02
www.nyc.gov

STATEMENT BY MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON THE ABNER LOUIMA CASE

Five years ago the torture of Abner Louima shocked and disgraced our City. Such a barbaric abuse of human rights and the law is absolutely intolerable and I know Police Commissioner Ray Kelly agrees. Today's decision by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals is a reminder that we need to do everything we can to prevent such incidents and also to improve the relationship between the police and members of every community they protect. Throughout our history, courts have made controversial decisions but we must respect the legal process, as it is a cornerstone of our democracy. This case will take its course and eventually conclude but our efforts at healing these wounds and repairing the broken trust can never end."

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Contact: Edward Skyler / Jerry Russo
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