BLM South Bend opposes adoption of police merit board

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Black Lives Matter South Bend announced it is opposing the adoption of a police merit board and asking the city to pass a proposal rejecting the merit system.

Indiana House Bill 1016 passed in 2023 and requires the city to take action by Dec. 31, or the state will establish a board itself.

BLM South Bend said this would give police increased power over hiring, firing, and discipling officers.

In the opposition announcement, BLM South Bend Chapter President Jorden Giger states in part:  

"Mayor James Mueller and his administration have aligned with the Republican Supermajority in the Indiana State Legislature and the racist, anti-Black FOP to create a merit board that will increase police power by allowing the police department to oversee itself."

The bill is set to go before the common council on Monday, Nov. 25.