ORLANDO, Fla. — Some local law enforcement agencies took to social media to share their concern after a Minneapolis police officer was seen on video kneeling on the neck of George Floyd before his death in police custody.
Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was arrested in the murder of Floyd, but the video of Chauvin’s knee on Floyd’s neck will have lasting effects on law enforcement.
Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma said he is saddened for Floyd’s family and concerned about the incident.
In a statement, Lemma said, “When incidents like this occur, whether near or far, it sets us back as a profession.”
Orlando police Chief Orlando Rolon posted a video on Twitter to voice his concern.
“The incident that happened in Minneapolis that took the life of Mr. Floyd is very concerning to us all," Rolon said. “Law enforcement professionals, leaders across the country have expressed their disgust with the situations that happened there, but we want to applaud the Minneapolis police chief for the swift action that he took when he terminated the employment of those officers.”
“These situations do set us back when we’re doing our best to build trust, to develop trust, to safeguard the trust that we have earned in our communities,” Rolon said.
Statement from @OrlandoPDChief Rolòn regarding the Minneapolis incident. pic.twitter.com/ztikvo3kaw
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) May 28, 2020
Orange County Sheriff John Mina said the incident was “inexcusable, indefensible and in my opinion, unlawful."
“We must hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Our profession must improve now,” Mina said.
Inexcusable, indefensible, and in my opinion unlawful. The video of #GeorgeFloyd dying is tragic and very sad. We must hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Our profession must improve... Now.
— Sheriff John Mina (@SheriffMina) May 27, 2020
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood said the “video out of Minneapolis is a horrific tragedy that played out for all to see."
“You just want to reach through the screen and do something. Wishing the family comfort, peace and justice. What a heartbreaking day," Chitwood said.
That video out of Minneapolis is a horrific tragedy that played out for all to see. You just want to reach through the screen and do something. Wishing the family comfort, peace and justice. What a heartbreaking day.
— Mike Chitwood (@SheriffChitwood) May 27, 2020
Daytona Beach police Chief Craig Capri said the incident was “very disturbing and sad.”
“The use of force was unnecessary and appalling,” Capri said. “The actions of the officers involved make it more difficult for law enforcement agencies everywhere to build community trust.”
Very disturbing and sad. The use of force was unnecessary and appalling. The actions of the officers involved make it more difficult for law enforcement agencies everywhere to build community trust. Thoughts & prayers for #GeorgeFloyd and his family.https://t.co/RCZtazSPBx
— Chief Craig Capri (@ChiefCapri) May 28, 2020
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