Several community groups met with reporters Thursday morning to respond to the revelation of the investigation surrounding the death of a man in Rochester police custody.

Local activists joined faith leaders from the United Christian Leadership Ministry in calling for the officers involved in the incident to be fired and criminally charged in connection with the death of Daniel Prude.

From the steps of Rochester City Hall, surrounded by community members, Rev. Lewis Stewart called for an independent investigation into the March death of Prude.

Rev. Stewart raised several questions for city leaders, such as why was the incident not made public sooner.

“The mayor and the chief need to give us clear answers as to why this is just now coming out. Black people’s lives are devalued. Black people’s lives are belittled. Black people’s lives are seen as nothing,” said Rev. Stewart.

Rev. Stewart scheduled a community conversation for Thursday evening at the First Church of God on Clarissa Street Beginning at 6 p.m.

He says he invited both Mayor Lovely Warren and RPD Chief La'Ron Singletary but has yet to hear back.

Rochester Police launched both a criminal and internal investigation. Police Chief Singletary says had there been any obvious proof of wrongdoing by the officers they would have been suspended. They were not.

There will be more to come on the investigation led by the New York State Attorney Generals Office.