Michael nodded his gaze fixed on. Mason I'm here because the people of this city demand accountability officer. Mason's actions were a gross violation of the trust placed in him by the public I want to ensure that this board makes the right decision. Reynolds looked uneasy but continued we aware of the public interest in this case however as you know these proceedings are typically handled internally we're here to review officer. Mason's conduct and determine whether disciplinary action up to and including termination is warranted.
Michael leaned forward his voice calm but firm with all due respect this case goes beyond typical internal matters officer. Mason didn't just violate procedure he abused his authority he assaulted me and nearly arrested me without cause simply because of his biases this isn't just about Department policy it's about the Integrity of the entire force. Mason who had remained silent until now finally spoke his voice defensive I did what I had to do you were standing out there late at night not answering my questions I was following my training. Michael turned his gaze toward. Mason his expression hard your training didn't tell you to ignore what I was saying your training didn't tell you to escalate the situation without reason this isn't about procedure it's about your assumptions.
Mason shifted uncomfortably his voice tight I've dealt with plenty of situations where someone says they're just waiting for a ride and ends up being a criminal I made a call and you made the wrong call. Michael shot back you made a call based on who I am not what I was doing that's the difference the room fell silent for a moment as. Captain. Reynolds looked between. Michael and.
Mason then addressed the room we'll now hear statements from officer. Mason and review the findings of the internal investigation as the meeting continued the board reviewed the evidence against. Mason his actions that night the body camera footage and witness testimony the case against him was overwhelming. Michael remained silent for most of the proceedings but every time. Mason tried to justify his actions.
Michael felt his anger rise finally after hours of discussion. Captain. Reynolds turned to. Michael Mayor Trent before we conclude is there anything else you'd like to say. Michael stood his eyes locking on.
Mason I've heard enough excuses from officer. Mason today he's refused to take accountability for his actions and that tells me everything I need to know the people of this city deserve better they deserve a police force they can trust one that serves and protects everyone without prejudice keeping officer. Mason on this force would be a stain on this Department's reputation he must be terminated. Mason scowled his voice low you're making me out to be a monster I didn't wake up that day planning to arrest anyone I was doing my job if that's what you think your job is then you should never have worn that badge in the first place. Michael replied coldly.
Captain. Reynolds nodded looking around the room the board will now deliberate an hour later the board returned with their decision. Captain. Reynolds spoke clearly his voice steady after reviewing the evidence and hearing all statements the board has decided that officer Greg. Mason's actions were in violation of Department policy his conduct was unprofessional and unacceptable officer.
Mason is hereby terminated from the police department effective immediately. Michael felt a wave of relief wash over him but he kept his expression neutral as. Mason stood visibly shaken the former officer didn't make eye contact with anyone as he left the room. Captain.
Reynolds turned to. Michael thank you for being here mayor Trent we understand this was an important decision for the city. Michael nodded his voice calm but Resolute this was the right decision but this is just the beginning the people of this city are watching and we need to continue pushing for the reforms that will prevent this from ever happening again as. Michael left the room.
Joshua met him in the hallway a look of satisfaction on his face it's done. Mason's gone. Michael nodded it's a victory but there's still more to do we need to make sure the reforms go through. Joshua smiled one battle at a time Mike but you've made history today.
Michael glanced back at the door to the review board's room feeling the weight of the moment maybe but we've got a lot more battles ahead of us as they walked out of City Hall. Michael knew that while. Mason was gone the fight for real change had only just begun this victory was significant but there were still deep rooted issues within the department that needed to to be addressed the road to reform was long but. Michael was ready to lead the way.