Philadelphia's Office of LGBT Affairs Director and Husband Arrested in Traffic Stop Video

Over the weekend, a video surfaced showing the arrest of Celena Morrison, the Executive Director of Philadelphia's Office of LGBT Affairs, and her husband during a traffic stop. The incident took place on the Vine Street Expressway in Philadelphia and has raised significant concerns among city officials.

Mayor’s Response

Mayor Cherelle Parker expressed deep concern over the video, stating that the footage is troubling. She mentioned that a Pennsylvania State Police Trooper executed a car stop reportedly for a Motor Vehicle Code violation, and Celena Morrison was in the vehicle at the time of the stop. The Mayor refrained from making further comments until the investigation is completed.

Details of the Arrest

Video footage, reportedly recorded by Morrison, shows a Pennsylvania State Trooper arresting her husband, Darius McLean, on the shoulder of I-76. Morrison can be heard identifying herself as working for the mayor and pleading with the trooper to stop. Morrison, who is believed to be the first openly transgender individual to lead a city office in Philadelphia, was appointed to the position in 2020 and has remained in the role under Mayor Parker’s administration.

Professions of the Individuals

Morrison’s husband serves as the director of the Arcila-Adams Trans Resource Center and chief operating officer of the William Way LGBT Community Center, both based in Philadelphia. The State Police reported that the car was pulled over for multiple vehicle code violations, including illegally tinted windows, an expired and suspended car registration, and driving without headlights in the rain.

Conflict with Law Enforcement

According to the State Police press release, McLean became verbally combative with the trooper and refused lawful orders during the traffic stop. This led to his arrest, during which Morrison allegedly interfered with the trooper’s actions. Both individuals were subsequently arrested for resisting arrest, obstruction of justice, disorderly conduct, and other related charges.

Public Response

Footage of the incident captured McLean expressing concern over being treated unfairly due to his race, to which the trooper responded that race was not a factor. However, Morrison can be heard off-camera affirming that race played a role in the arrest.

Mayor’s Executive Order

Following the incident, Mayor Parker signed an executive order declaring a public safety emergency and directed the police to develop comprehensive plans to address crime throughout the city.

Investigation and Public Appeal

The couple was detained and later released, with the district attorney’s office refraining from making any decisions on potential charges until a thorough investigation is completed. The office also encouraged members of the public with truthful information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation.

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