- April 4, 2025
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World War Two veteran Amerigo Rick Cimino was one of over 30 retired law enforcement officers who boycotted Quentin Tarantino's new movie the “Hateful Eight," in front of Epic Theatre .
Jeff Flammer, George Byrne and Mark Chavez
“Support your local police," was chanted by the assembled boycotts.
Retired Sergeant Alex Piekunka and retired FDNY firefighter Joe Beneducci discuss the issue at hand.
Retired New York State Corrections Officer Tim Smith boycotts with retired Pennsylvanian Police Chief David Mazzone.
The boycotts stood peacefully outside of Epic Theatre for most of Wednesday afternoon.
Director Quentin Tarantino publicly gave his opinion while attending a protest against police brutality in New York City on Saturday, October 24. His comment goes as follows: “When I see murder I cannot stand by, and I have to call the murdered the murdered and I have to call the murderers the murderers," said Quentin Tarantino.
“We gather here today to remind everyone what it means to be a law enforcement officer: We serve and protect the community.” David Mazzone, retired police chief
His statement insinuates the policemen involved in the death of a civilian are murderers. Police officers across the nation are at unrest from Tarantino’s cynical accusation.
“It is unfortunate that such a stereotype has been placed upon police officers, who work tirelessly to protect the very people who scrutinize them,” said WWII veteran Rick Cimino. “Today we are protecting our dignity, so we stand together to have our voices heard. We stand for peace and justice.”
“Support your local police,” chanted the boycotters as people approached Epic theatre.
Members of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 171 arranged a gathering at Epic Theatre on Wednesday, January 6, to boycott Tarantino’s newest film “Hateful Eight.” The boycott was held in an attempt to dissuade people from seeing the movie, as a result of Tarantino’s comment.
“Tarantino used his fame to his advantage and knew his words would have a widespread effect on people’s opinion on law enforcement,” said Ron Conklin, president of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 171. “Therefore it is necessary for us to stand by our fellow officers and remind the world who we are and what we do. No matter what race or religion, we do not discriminate, but serve and protect the community, and if need be, we sacrifice our lives to save yours.”
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