The Rev. Al Sharpton made a stop in Mount Vernon Sunday to address community concerns, such as police brutality, at a local church.
The Conference of United Freewill Baptists was held at the Friendship Worship Center. Although other pastors from around the area were in attendance, Sharpton was the major attraction for many.
"I've always wanted to meet him in person and today is the day that the Lord has made ... it possible," said parishioner Jacqueline Elmore.
The trip comes after Sharpton came to Yonkers in July to speak about police brutality in Westchester. However, that event was canceled at the last minute, leading the activist to give an impromptu speech in Trevor Park.
Sharpton, who leads the National Action Network, said he is trying to work with Westchester police to fix problems, not cause them. The activist said he intends to set up a chapter of his group in Westchester.
Yonkers police say they are looking into brutality accusations brought by Sharpton.
"Not all policemen are bad, but some are. And there are some who are not sensitive to people," said Friendship Worship Center Pastor C. Nathan Edwers.