The recent traffic stop involving a Philadelphia city leader has sparked controversy and raised concerns about police conduct. Celena Morrison-McLean, director of the city’s Office of LGBT Affairs, and her husband, Darius McLean, are speaking out about their traumatic experience with Pennsylvania State Police.
The incident, captured on a viral video, shows Darius McLean being held down by a state police trooper along the side of an expressway. Celena Morrison-McLean can be heard in the video yelling that she works for the mayor in an attempt to de-escalate the situation.
According to their attorneys, the McLeans were driving back to Philadelphia from picking up a car in New Jersey when they encountered the trooper on the I-76 expressway. The trooper accused Morrison-McLean of tailgating, but their attorneys claim that the trooper was speeding up and slowing down in front of their vehicle.
When the trooper pulled over Darius McLean, he approached the car with his gun drawn, which the McLeans found to be aggressive and unnecessary. They are demanding transparency in the investigation and training for law enforcement officers.
The Pennsylvania State Police have stated that the incident is still under investigation, and the district attorney’s office will not make a decision on filing charges until the investigation is complete. The McLeans’ attorney has indicated that they will pursue civil action against the trooper.
This incident highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement interactions. The McLeans are seeking justice and an apology from the Pennsylvania State Police for their traumatic experience. The community is watching closely as this case unfolds, hoping for a fair and just resolution.
As the investigation continues, it is crucial for authorities to provide a clear picture of what happened during the traffic stop and take appropriate action to address any misconduct that may have occurred. Only by holding law enforcement accountable can trust be restored between the community and the police.