Charles Barkley rips ‘fools’ who support defunding the police: ‘We as Black people, we need the police’

Across the United States, people have varying opinions about defunding the police. In light of some events throughout the country in recent years involving the police, many Americans believe in defunding them.

Others are staunch defenders of the police. NBA legend Charles Barkley recently revealed which side he is on during a podcast appearance.

“We need policemen,” said Barkley. “See, this is what frustrates me. You have these idiots and fools talking about ‘defund the police’ and everything. We as Black people, we need the police. Now, when they screw up, they need to be held accountable.”

Barkley continued after hearing former NFL player Ryan Clark say that the police need to be “better.”

“They need to be held accountable and when they screw up because I tell you this, Ryan,” said Barkley. “Who are Black people supposed to call when we got crimes in our neighborhood? Ghostbusters?”

The Hall of Famer certainly makes an interesting point. While his words will surely be met with some support, they will also be met with some criticism as well.

Since retiring from the league back in 2000, the 11-time All-Star hasn’t shied away from giving his thoughts on a wide variety of topics.

Many people undoubtedly remember his moments on the court. Although he was never able to win an NBA title, Barkley made his mark on the league.

During his time in the NBA, he averaged 22.1 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 54.1 percent from the field. He is considered to be one of the greatest players to never win an NBA championship.

Nowadays, he works as an analyst for TNT’s coverage of the league alongside Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson.