The Hudson Valley Community Coalition, a new organization that promises to promote discussion about the immigration issue, has a comment today about the acquittal of former officer George Bubaris in Rene Javier Perez’s death. Click here for the group’s web site.

The Hudson Valley Community Coalition supports the proposed federal civil rights investigation into the death of Rene Perez, a Mount Kisco, New York resident.

“The ‘not guilty’ verdict in the trial of former Mount Kisco police officer George Bubaris left many of us very uneasy, and deeply troubled about the message it sends to our Hispanic neighbors,” said John Riley, speaking on behalf of the group. “We want to know why he died. Regardless of Mr. Perez’ difficulties or past history, he did not deserve to be killed. Good people of the Hudson Valley are very concerned that a member of this community is left to die on a deserted road, and no one is held accountable. We want to know what actions are in place to investigate Rene Perez’s death. We also want to know what plan the police department has in place to review their practices and undertake meaningful training in cultural competency. Everyone is protected under the constitution. No human being should be left to die in the woods. Better police communication with local community organizations can help prevent this kind of tragedy, through partnerships that reflect a respect for constitutional and human values.”