Annapolis, MD - “The jury in the Derek Chauvin trial came back quickly and they got it right. With Chauvin’s knee on George Floyd’s neck for nine minutes and 29 seconds, we all saw what happened and the jury confirmed it. The verdicts won’t bring back George Floyd, but they show that justice was served.
“We all have been paying attention to the details of how witnesses, bystanders and even fellow police officers in Minneapolis viewed the actions of former officer Chauvin. This was a national trial, but for the residents of Minneapolis, it was local.
“We attempt not be reactive in Annapolis, but to be proactive in our approach to policing and community interactions. Annapolis has had body worn cameras for more than three years – before the state legislature mandated body worn cameras for local police. Annapolis made a commitment to a new model for community policing. The City of Annapolis began work on a civilian review board before the General Assembly mandated such oversight in its most recent session. In 2019, we hired our new Annapolis Police Chief Edward Jackson to ensure that Annapolis had a new focus and a new direction.
“Police have a responsibility to keep the peace and be guardians of the communities they serve. The focus that this trial has brought to police accountability is a long overdue conversation for America. Annapolis as a City will continue to be a proactive participant.”
- Mayor Gavin Buckley
