The Justice for Chello coalition filled the Erie County Courthouse Tuesday night, demanding an official statement from the Erie County Council regarding Marchello Woodard's death.
Dozens of advocates organized by the coalition attended the meeting, voicing their concerns about the council's silence on the matter. Public comments extended for nearly an hour and a half, with speakers urging the council to address the Woodard case formally.
Deonte Cooley, Marchello's cousin, expressed frustration with the council's hesitance to make a public statement, asking for the same consideration given to other county issues. "County council was very, very hesitant to make a public statement," Cooley said.
Terry Scutella, chairman of the Erie County Council, acknowledged the ongoing investigation and