Police Head Disputes Review of Starbucks Arrest of Black Men

The police commissioner of Philadelphia is taking issue with parts of a review by the police advisory commission after the high-profile arrest of two black men at a Starbucks coffee house.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports the review released Monday says racial bias among police officers may have played a role in the arrests.

Police Commissioner Richard Ross disputes the report’s contention that “racism has a profound effect on what drives citizen and police contact.”

He says “criminal conduct and victimization” drives such contact but acknowledges that biases “may distort the fears and perceptions” of some people who call police.

Rashon Nelson and Donte Robinson were arrested within minutes of their arrival at the Starbucks in April. No charges were filed, but video of their arrest prompted a national outcry and policy changes at the chain.