Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory has announced intentions to dedicate a portion of federal funds to police training following the shooting death of Trayford Pellerin by Lafayette Police.
Pellerin was shot and killed on August 21 after police say they were called to a disturbance on the Evangeline Thruway. Officers tried to apprehend Pellerin and alleged that Tasers were "ineffective" during the pursuit. A later autopsy revealed no evidence that Pellerin had been struck by a Taser and that officers had shot Pellerin 10 times. He also suffered additional wounds from "projectile fire" at the scene. In total, the autopsy reported that Lafayette Police fired at least 17 shots at close range.
The shooting resulted in outcry throughout the city and calls for justice for Pellerin.
Following public comment during a meeting on Tuesday, during which several residents used their time to speak on the recent shooting, Guillory said the city is expecting around $13 million in federal CARES funding. Of that, Guillory said he believes, at minimum, $1 million should be dedicated as a foundation for police training.
A suggestion from Parish Councilman A.B. Rubin on mental evaluations and training for officers, including training on behavioral health, deescalation, and situational awareness, should be taken very seriously, said Guillory.
He will seek input from council members and professionals, make a plan, and submit it to the council for consideration.
If you'd like to watch the discussion, click the link above - Guillory speaks on police training at around 1:24.
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