The ACLU of Nebraska is asking questions surrounding last week's deadly officer involved shooting in Cass County.
23 year old Austin Baier was shot by Cass County deputy Tyler Reiff following a traffic stop in Louisville. Reiff stopped Baier for reckless driving, and investigators say Baier got out of his car and confronted Reiff, who shot and killed Baier. So far, no other details about the shooting have been released by the Nebraska State Patrol, which is handling the investigation
ACLU of Nebraska Executive Director Danielle Conrad released the following statement Tuesday. "Any time someone is killed while interacting with law enforcement, tough questions need to be asked. Recent media reports concerning the death of a young man in Louisville last week at the hands of a Cass County law enforcement officer leave more questions than answers. We respect the investigation process currently underway and will wait for details to emerge as appropriate."
"We also renew our call for a public dialogue that includes improved training for law enforcement in threat assessment and de-escalation, the establishment of stronger mechanisms for transparency and accountability, such as independent civilian review boards with disciplinary authority, and increased oversight and data reporting on use of force incidents by law enforcement. The ACLU will continue to advocate for policies and practices that ensure law enforcement treats all communities with dignity, employs restraint on police power, and uses only the degree of force necessary to maintain the community's safety."
