Marie Driscoll urges MPD to adopt permanent ban on amplified megaphones in neighborhood

During a recent oversight roundtable held by the District of Columbia's Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety, community members voiced pressing concerns about police accountability and noise disturbances in residential neighborhoods. The meeting, chaired by Brooke Pinto, highlighted the ongoing challenges residents face and the actions taken by local law enforcement.

One of the most impactful testimonies came from a resident who demanded accountability for two individuals, Justin and Quran, who were tragically killed by police officers. The speaker emphasized the need for justice and urged the committee to take decisive action against what they described as "unprecedented impunity" exhibited by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) over the past year.

In contrast, Marie Driscoll, secretary of the Sheridan Kalorama Neighborhood Council, shared a more positive experience regarding MPD's response to noise complaints from demonstrators using amplified megaphones. Driscoll recounted how MPD leadership promptly addressed the noise issue, which had plagued the neighborhood for two years, by enforcing new legislation that prohibits the use of amplified equipment during early morning hours. She praised the officers for their professionalism and ability to maintain peace during tense situations.

Driscoll also proposed further measures to alleviate the workload on MPD, suggesting that the use of unmanned, remotely controlled, amplified megaphones be permanently banned in residential areas. She argued that such restrictions would not only reduce the need for police presence but also enhance the quality of life for residents and potentially support local property values.

The meeting underscored the dual nature of community-police relations, with residents calling for accountability while also recognizing the efforts made by law enforcement to address specific issues. As the committee prepares for upcoming legislation, the discussions from this roundtable will likely influence future policies aimed at balancing public safety with community needs.