During a recent High Point city council meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding police conduct and the treatment of individuals with mental health issues. Vicki Alston, a resident, highlighted troubling incidents involving police use of force, particularly referencing an August 19th event where a bipolar woman was allegedly subjected to excessive force. Alston questioned the humanity of police interactions and called for improved training that addresses racial bias and builds community trust.

Bernita Sims echoed these sentiments, praising the police department's efforts but stressing the need for a more humane approach in their operations. She emphasized the importance of transparency and the need for better handling of mental health crises, urging the council to report on how such situations are managed to prevent rights violations.

Joseph Austin, also a resident, expressed his concerns about the reparations package being discussed, suggesting that an apology—an inexpensive yet significant gesture—should not be overlooked in the broader reparations conversation. He acknowledged the police chief's outreach efforts but noted that many community members remain skeptical and require more than just assurances.

Eugene Lulu and Floyd Carlton, both addressing the same incident, shared their frustrations with the police department's handling of cases involving individuals with mental health challenges. Carlton, in particular, described a distressing encounter involving his relative, alleging that police brutality was evident in the treatment of his family member.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for accountability and reform within the High Point Police Department, particularly regarding their engagement with vulnerable populations. Community members are calling for a more compassionate approach to policing, especially in situations involving mental health crises, as they seek to foster trust and safety within their neighborhoods.