Pittsburgh Council Ends Minor Violation Traffic Stops

PITTSBURGH — (WPXI) – Pittsburgh police will be changing the way they have always done their jobs. They will no longer be allowed to make traffic stops for minor and secondary violations. Some of those violations include having a tail light out, registration in the wrong place, or overdue registration. Reverend Ricky Burgess introduced the legislation. “I’m proud of council for being supportive of his legislations that we believe is common sense. It will help to increase police-community relationships, and give the community more confidence in the police,” Reverend Burgess told our news partners at Channel 11.  Mayor Bill Peduto, who only has a few days left in office, agreed with the vote. “Large number of traffic stops that are taking place are happening in predominately Black neighborhoods. And, they tend to lead into more serious incidents than a tail light that’s out, or somebody that runs a stop sign,” Mayor Peduto said. However, during Tuesday’s city council meeting, community members pleaded for a public hearing to further discuss the legislation. Councilman Anthony Coghill echoed their concerns, and was the only council member who voted against the bill.