Police were called to a Planned Parenthood. What happened next is shocking.

Several days ago the West Seneca (NY) police posted a series of cryptic tweets:

We have been in contact with the Administrative Staff from Planned Parenthood and are conducting a joint investigation into incident and allegations made regarding the demeanor of an officer who responded to the situation.

— West Seneca Police (@wspolice) August 17, 2020

We support, and stand shoulder to shoulder with those who are working to make West Seneca a better place through positive change. We ask that interested parties allow us to work with Planned Parenthood and give us an opportunity to make corrective measures as the facts dictate.

— West Seneca Police (@wspolice) August 17, 2020

For several days rumors circulated online about this incident. Planned Parenthood of Central and Western NY has now released this statement (my emphasis):

On August 14, an individual arrived at Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York’s (PPCWNY) West Seneca health center and demanded to speak to his partner who he believed was being treated at the health center. The individual’s behavior became a threat to our patients and staff, and he was asked to leave. After leaving, the individual attempted to re-enter the health center, and kicked the door several times. Planned Parenthood staff called 911 and an officer with the West Seneca Police Department responded to the call. Upon seeing a Black Lives Matter sign in the window, the officer asked if the sign belonged to Planned Parenthood. When this was confirmed, the officer berated staff for PPCWNY’s support of the movement and left after refusing to respond to the call.

Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York is in communication with the appropriate officials at West Seneca Police department, and at this point in time is satisfied with their swift disciplinary action. We understand the officer in question has been suspended pending an investigation into the incident.

Planned Parenthood stands in solidarity with Black Lives Matter because the movement demands change and strives to dismantle systemic racism. We know that systemic racism permeates every American institution: the criminal justice system, health care, housing, and more. The foundation of this country was built on systemic racism and the free labor of enslaved Black people. PPCWNY will continue to demand accountability, justice and an end to the inequity that continues to define every moment of life for Black America.

In summary, PPCWNY called the police after a patient’s partner threatened staff and attempted to enter. The dispatched police officer saw a BLM sign in PPCWNY’s window and berated the staff and refused to do his job to protect their safety.

Only time will tell if this officer is removed from the force. I wouldn’t hold my breath.