Guardian Chronicle NYC Councilman James Davis:        A Fighter For Peace and Justice Killed by Othniel Askew- A Political Rival July 23, 2003  Story and File Photos by Ralph E Smith As I heard about the breaking news of a shooting inside City Hall on July 23, 2003, I said to myself, I hope no one was hurt. I know a lot of people who work there. Just as those thoughts flowed in my mind, the calls came into our news desk that Mr. James  Davis was shot and didn't make it.  I just sat in my car and closed my eyes and saw myself with the Councilman just a few days ago at a May 14 City Hall Press Conference for Danny Glover.  I remember taking a great photo of a Mr. Davis.  I enjoyed photographing Mr. Davis because he was a community leader who I respected, loved, and enjoyed being around because he spoke what ever was on his mind. He was a very powerful speaker, Preacher and never forget: A Teacher! He was a former New York City Correction Officer and Police Officer.  He knew how to respect and help people.  He also had a way of public speaking that  demanded your attention! Even after he left the New York City Department of Correction, he returned several times with his Stop the Violence Program and assisted both staff and inmates. He knew he could make a positive difference. On July 23, 2003 at 2:08pm according to Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly, the shooting took place inside City Hall.  At 5pm press time, the Guardian Chronicle had the understanding that a Othniel Askew who came into City Hall with Mr. Davis was able to bypass metal detectors while walking with Mr. Davis (A rule that has now been changed by Mayor Bloomberg- "ALL Including the Mayor of New York Must pass the Metal Detector.") Mr. Davis, 41 was shot several times by Othniel Askew who was later shot dead by an NYPD Officer in City Hall.  According to quotes from Councilman Charles Barron, "The shooter seemed to be targeting an individual" A brief background on a true Leader, Full Time Guardian and Community Fighter! Mr. James E. Davis was born on April 3, 1962.  He spent most of his childhood in Brooklyn. His father was a New York City Correction Officer and his mother was a registered nurse.  Mr. Davis earned his Bachelor's degree from Pace University. 1989: Mr. James E. Davis started his Law Enforcement career as a New City Correction Officer on Rikers Island. 1990: Mr. Davis started the "Love Yourself" Stop The Violence Non-Profit Organization. 1991: Mr. Davis went on to work for the NYC Transit Police and later transferred to the NYPD in 1993 1993: Mr. Davis continued his career by joining the New York City Police Department and patrolled the streets. Later became an outstanding NYPD Academy Instructor.   2001: Mr. Davis was elected to represent the NYC Council's 35th District in Brooklyn. Words of Mr. James Davis death spread very fast and National Leaders such as Sen. Hillary Clinton stated, "The Death of Davis, a man who devoted himself to law enforcement and stopping violence, "A tragic Terrible Irony." There are no words on paper that can ever fill the gap left by the passing of this strong bright man. But he did leave behind his vision to build upon. A Vision of Non-Violence and Stopping Violence. Hopefully, after the tears and pain clears a little, the collective WE will be able to continue where this proud African American man left off.  May God give strength to the family and hundreds of friends and co-workers.  Mr. James Davis was the definition of Fighter: "One who makes his way through struggle" This group was present during the May 14, 2003 Rally for Danny Glover.  This was the last event that God blessed our cameras to photograph Mr. James Davis

Guardian Chronicle.Com