Faith leaders continue push for no-knock ban, frustrated with Mayor Gorton

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Black faith leaders in Lexington are frustrated with Mayor Linda Gorton for her refusal to back their call to ban the use of no-knock search warrants.

The group gathered Thursday morning at Saint Paul AME Church.

The leaders are glad the Urban County Council is considering a proposal to ban no-knock warrants, but not happy the mayor’s not on-board.

The group says it won’t back down from what it calls an important fight.

“We will illuminate for more than 48,000 Black Lexingtonians, for all Lexingtonians who seek progressive police reform, whether or not Mayor Gorton and the councilmembers we have elected truly represent our interests in this matter that can quickly and easily become a matter of life and death in our community,” Pastor David Peoples, of Jabez Missionary Church, said.

Gorton responded in a statement to ABC 36 News:

“In deciding to impose a moratorium on no knock warrants back in June, I listened to citizens on all sides of this issue, and I listened to our police … and I continue listen to the ongoing debate. In Lexington, a no knock warrant is about life and death situations. These warrants are rare, and they can be misunderstood. Our chief has said there are times and situations where no knock warrants offer more protection for police and for citizens because they involve violent situations, and he has expressed his concerns about eliminating them completely. I understand how difficult this decision is for councilmembers as they hear from many different voices in our community.”

The full council is expected to take up the proposed ban in June.