Obituary – Cause of Death : Paul Chevigny, Renowned Advocate for Police Accountability, Passes Away at 88

Paul Chevigny, an early voice on police brutality and a champion for civil liberties, has passed away at the age of 88. Chevigny was instrumental in reining in the NYPD’s Red Squad and played a pivotal role in the fight to overturn the reactionary Cabaret Law, which unjustly restricted dancing in clubs. His tireless efforts to protect the rights of individuals and hold law enforcement accountable have left an indelible mark on the fight for justice.

Born in 1935, Paul Chevigny dedicated his life to advocating for civil liberties and fighting against oppressive systems. He obtained a law degree from Harvard University and went on to become a professor at New York University School of Law. It was during his time at NYU that Chevigny became deeply involved in the civil rights movement and began to focus his efforts on combating police brutality.

Chevigny recognized the need to address the systemic issues within law enforcement that allowed for the abuse of power and violation of citizens’ rights. He played a crucial role in exposing the NYPD’s Red Squad, a covert intelligence unit that targeted political dissidents and activists. Chevigny’s relentless pursuit of justice helped shed light on the unconstitutional practices of the Red Squad and led to its eventual disbandment.

One of Chevigny’s most significant accomplishments was his involvement in the campaign to overturn the Cabaret Law. This controversial legislation, enacted in 1926, prohibited dancing in New York City establishments that did not possess a special license. The law was widely criticized for disproportionately targeting minority communities and stifling artistic expression. Chevigny recognized the inherent injustice of the Cabaret Law and fought tirelessly alongside activists and artists to have it repealed. In 2017, after years of advocacy, the law was finally struck down, marking a significant victory for civil liberties.

Throughout his career, Chevigny authored several influential books on police misconduct and the criminal justice system. His seminal work, “Police Power: Police Abuses in New York City,” exposed the widespread patterns of abuse within the NYPD and called for accountability and reform. Chevigny’s research and advocacy provided a powerful platform for addressing police brutality and sparked important conversations about the need for systemic change.

While the cause of Paul Chevigny’s death has not been disclosed, his legacy as a fierce advocate for justice and civil liberties will undoubtedly live on. His courage, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of individuals have left an indelible impact on the fight against police brutality and the pursuit of a more equitable society.

As we mourn the loss of this influential figure, we must also honor his memory by continuing the work he dedicated his life to. Paul Chevigny’s legacy serves as a reminder that the fight for justice is ongoing and that each individual has the power to make a difference. His contributions to the field of civil rights and his unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of justice will forever be remembered. May he rest in peace..

He helped rein in the NYPD’s Red Squad and led the fight to overturn the reactionary Cabaret Law, which restricted dancing in clubs. RIP.

Paul Chevigny, Early Voice on Police Brutality, Dies at 88 https://t.co/C4gYUlXzoO

— Ted Hamm (@HammerDaily) December 17, 2023

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@HammerDaily said He helped rein in the NYPD's Red Squad and led the fight to overturn the reactionary Cabaret Law, which restricted dancing in clubs. RIP. Paul Chevigny, Early Voice on Police Brutality, Dies at 88 nytimes.com/2023/12/16/us/…