BLM OKC & Supporters Voice Demands Following Officer-Involved Shooting Death Of 15-Year-Old

There are more calls for change Thursday following the death of 15-year-old Stavian Rodriguez. Oklahoma City Police shot and killed the armed robbery suspect Monday evening. Black Lives Matter OKC and supporters held a press conference on Thanksgiving to voice their demands in response to the deadly shooting. News 9's Jennifer Pierce has the story.

Thursday, November 26th 2020, 5:53 pm

By: Jennifer Pierce

Oklahoma City -

There are more calls for change Thursday following the death of 15-year-old Stavian Rodriguez.

Oklahoma City Police shot and killed the armed robbery suspect Monday evening.

Black Lives Matter OKC and supporters held a press conference on Thanksgiving to voice their demands in response to the deadly shooting. Leaders said they plan to hand deliver their list of demands to the Oklahoma City Police Department’s Chief of Police Wade Gourley and other city leaders.

“It really struck me that we’re having to try to balance gratefulness versus grieving,” said Rev. T Sheri Dickerson, BLM OKC.

The press conference was held the day after protesters chanted the name of the teenager shot and killed by officers. They voiced their anger after videos showed Rodriguez being gunned down after he surrendered his weapon.

Rodriguez's death follows the recent officer-involved shooting deaths of Michael Dansby, 43, and 37-year0old Brandon Milburn.

“We’re saying stop killing us,” said Cynthia Garcia, activist. “Oklahoma City Police Department ranks two in the nation. When we talk about being a top 10 city, Mayor Holt, Chief Gourley, fellow Oklahomans is this the number two you’re talking about?”

They once again called for swift action from city leaders, beginning with the chief of police.

“We call on the Oklahoma City council, the mayor to urge City Manager Craig Freeman to initiate the termination of Chief Gourley if his resignation is not submitted within seven days,” said Dickerson.

Dickerson also took a tough stance on lethal force.

“We adamantly call for the suspension of lethal force in every situation,” said Dickerson.

As well as termination of officers who use lethal force.

“We are calling for immediate action on police officers who use lethal force on our minor children,” said Sarah Adams-Cornell, Indigenous rights activist. “Our children. We ask that you stand with us.”

The three deadly officer-involved shootings remain under investigation. The Oklahoma County District Attorney will decide if they will face charges.