Hoyer Statement Following Meeting with Prince George's County Police Chief Malik Aziz

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after a virtual meeting with Prince George's County Police Chief Malik Aziz:

"At a time when police departments around the nation are working to stamp out systemic bias and ensure our officers have the tools they need to effectively protect the communities they serve, I was pleased to meet with Prince George's County Police Chief Malik Aziz. During our conversation, Chief Aziz reaffirmed his pledge to address the most pressing issues facing his department, including a particular focus on community-policing, rebuilding officer morale, and reducing crime in Prince George's County.

"I have complete confidence that Chief Aziz will listen to the concerns of Prince Georgians and place their well-being and dignity at the forefront of his leadership. I appreciate his strong record of championing community policing as a strategy to build fellowship between police and the people they protect, especially in communities where this trust has been severely broken. I am glad that Chief Aziz is dedicated to improving the workplace conditions and morale of our officers by creating an environment where the over 1,800 officers in the Prince George's County Police Department can continue to effectively serve our residents.

"In a moment such as this, I am pleased that Prince Georgians can rely on Chief Aziz to lead with justice and equality when addressing the significant challenges facing our communities. I look forward to working with Chief Aziz to strengthen trust in our Police Department."