Reflecting on the 10-year anniversary of Eric Garner's tragic death, there are significant strides being made in terms of accountability, but a concerning regression regarding the encryption of NYPD radios. A decade after Garner's killing, it is encouraging to see a growing emphasis on holding law enforcement accountable for their actions. The ongoing protests, legal battles, and calls for police reform have brought increased awareness and scrutiny to cases of police brutality. This renewed focus has been pivotal in pushing for meaningful changes to ensure that officers are held responsible for their misconduct. However, amidst these advancements, there is a disturbing trend in the opposite direction when it comes to the encryption of NYPD radios. In recent years, calls for greater transparency and public access to police communications have been overshadowed by the decision to encrypt police radio transmissions.

This move limits the ability of the public and the media to monitor police activities, potentially hindering the exposure of wrongful actions or misconduct. As we navigate the delicate balance between privacy and transparency, it is crucial to find solutions that protect individual rights without impeding accountability. It is essential to explore alternatives that strike a balance between maintaining officer safety and ensuring transparency to prevent any erosion of trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. In commemorating Eric Garner's tragic death, let us continue to push for systemic changes that promote accountability and transparency in policing. We must remember that progress should not come at the expense of reinforcing barriers that hinder the public's right to hold law enforcement accountable.