Another story is about to rock the NYPD for its discriminatory conduct. Being sued by Critical Mass bike riders and a stinging Internal Affairs report apparently wasn't enough for their sagging reputation. Now it seems that an officer related to the hiring process for new recruits denied Said Hajem a position solely based on his ethnicity, despite having an exemplary application and prior review.
From OnNYTurf:
According to court documents, plaintiff, Said Hajem came to the US in 2000, and was studying and working at the same time. He supported himself while learning English, and continued his education. He received a degree in Accounting and a certificate of proficiency in English. Two years later he completed a degree in Business Management. The NYPD requires an applicant have 60 college credits and a GPA of 2.2. Hajim has a Bachelor's degree in Economics and two Associates Degrees with a GPA of 3.33.
Following 9/11 and after seeing a 60 Minutes special on recruiting problems with the NYPD and the need for Arabic speakers on the force, Hajem decided to pursue a career with the Police Department. He took the police academy entrance exam in February of 2006, and scored an 85.9. He also underwent a written and oral psychological examination and was told at the time he was passed and was clear to continue to the Police Academy. He also passed the Academy physical exam and received a congratulatory letter from Police Commissioner Kelly.
Hajim was then contacted by Officer Ramkissoon who wanted Hajim to come in for an interview and provide three references. When Hajim met with Ramkissoon he was told in substance "these are Middle Eastern names and I want American names. You may be a terrorist and they may say good things about you." He added "I am against people who come from other countries and want to be police officers here."
That is what we are dealing with in the NYPD. Even though this is about one applicant and one officer, the problem with our police force does not stop with Officer Ramkissoon. Thanks to people like Rudy Giuliani and those like him, the police force that is meant to protect us is becoming increasingly militarized and rife with racial stereotypes despite what seems to be an ethnically diverse workforce.
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