Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh on Officer Hanks’ Notice of Claim

Statement by Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh on Officer Hanks’ Discrimination Suit:

“The City is reviewing the allegations. We need to ensure all of the facts are considered and will respond to the notice of claim.

I do know Officer Hanks, and I’ve seen his work in the community. He’s been a great representative of the Department with our young people, and I was honored to award him my Mayor’s Achievement Award late last year.

The allegations are concerning and hard to read. Chief Buckner and I share a firm commitment to ensuring the SPD is a fair and equitable department with its officers and with the community. That is what we are striving for every day.”