Governor Baker, Black Lives Matter RI release separate statements on Chauvin ruling

BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker today released the following statement concerning the Derek Chauvin verdict.

“Eleven months ago, Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin subdued and handcuffed George Floyd, and then knelt on his neck for over 8 horrific minutes.

“Since then, many states and municipalities, horrified by the viral video of George Floyd’s death, have enacted significant law enforcement reforms – including here in Massachusetts.

“But for many, the most important unanswered question since that awful night has been much more personal: Where is the justice for George Floyd – and for that matter, Officer Chauvin?

“Nothing can reverse the pain, suffering and agony of George Floyd’s family and friends, but this decision does make clear that Officer Chauvin was not above the law. He was given a fair trial, found guilty, and he will pay a price for his actions.

“But as the countless, tragic events that took place at the hands of law enforcement before and after George Floyd’s death make clear, there is much to do to correct, reform and reimagine the way law enforcement officers are trained, and how they and their departments are held accountable for their actions.

“Massachusetts enacted one of the most comprehensive police training, transparency and accountability laws in the country at the end of last year. We owe it to all those whose lives have been lost to do all we can to successfully implement that law, and sustain its aspirations far into the future.”

BLM RI PAC Executive Director Harrison Tuttle has released the following statement:

“No verdict will ease the pain of the Floyd family, but a guilty verdict is a step in the right direction, but we have a long way to go before the U.S. Justice System comes close to something we can call ‘justice.’ We won’t rest and we won’t be silent until justice is finally, actually served.”