The name Freddie Gray may go down in the annals of Baltimore history in a positive way: Years from now people may recall him whenever they talk about how the way Baltimore police deal with suspects has changed for the better ("Tensions remain high over Freddie Gray's death," April 22).
Mr. Gray's case could prompt a new era in police-community relations not only in Baltimore but in other cities as well. The time has come for the Baltimore City Police Department to reassess the mentality with which its officers approach criminal suspects as well as crime victims.
Note to Police Commissioner Anthony Batts: The current system is taking lives and ruining families. Scuttle the current template because it isn't working.
Real communication between police and suspects has been devalued as a means of defusing conflict. All too often cops want to Taser suspects, disarm them and get them on the ground and cuffed. But dialogue takes patience.
The emphasis has to be put on cops trying a new modus operandi by avoiding physical confrontation with suspects whenever possible. That psychological wall between residents and police must come down.
Far too many people have already been affected by police brutality. The Baltimore City Police Department must make the needed changes immediately. The nation will be watching.
Patrick R. Lynch, Nottingham