In a recent Facebook post from the Millcreek Township Police addressed the incident in which two officers were seen responding to a First Amendment audit while referring to the individual with insulting language. The incident was recorded on camera, and the Police Chief Carter Mook provided a response to this incident.
Police Chief Carter Mook’s statement:
“I want to address the video that has been circulating online showing two of our officers responding to a First Amendment audit and referring to the individual with insulting language.
First, let me be clear: individuals engaged in First Amendment audits, such as recording in public spaces, photographing government buildings, or questioning officers about department policy, are exercising a constitutionally protected right. Officers are expected to treat every member of the public with professionalism and respect, regardless of whether we agree with their purpose or find the interaction frustrating. That standard doesn’t have exceptions for people we find annoying or provocative.
The language used by our officers in this video fell short of that standard. Name-calling has no place in how we engage with the public, whether someone is a critic, a bystander, or anyone else we interact with in the course of our duties. It reflects poorly on this department and undermines the trust we’re working to build with this community.
I’ve reviewed the footage and have opened an internal review of the incident, consistent with our standard process for reviewing officer conduct complaints. That review will look at the full interaction, not just the isolated comment, and will determine whether any additional action including retraining or discipline is warranted. I’m not going to prejudge the outcome here, but I want the community to know this is being taken seriously and not brushed aside.
I’d also ask the community to hold both sides of these interactions to a fair standard. Officers are human beings working in an often tense, high-scrutiny environment, and that context matters. But it doesn’t excuse unprofessional conduct, and it’s my job to make sure our officers meet the standard this community expects and deserves.
I appreciate the residents who bring these videos to our attention. Transparency and accountability aren’t things we’re afraid of; they’re things we’re committed to.”