Officials announced on Wednesday that former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch would advise New York Attorney General Letitia James during the investigation into the police response during recent protests.
“The right to peacefully protest is one of our most basic civil rights, and we are working without rest to ensure that right is protected and guarded,” James said in a statement. “As we continue our investigation, I will continue to use every tool at my disposal to seek answers and accountability, and that includes calling on the sharpest minds to lend their expertise.”
“There is no greater responsibility of government than the protection of its citizens,” Lynch said. “It is time to examine recent events to ensure that all New Yorkers receive truly equal protection under the law. I look forward to working with Attorney General James and her outstanding team on these important issues.”
The investigation was sparked by complaints of unreasonable or excessive response by the NYPD during recent protests against the death of George Floyd.