White House, AG Lynch Committed To Assisting Baltimore
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- President Barack Obama spoke with both Attorney General Loretta Lynch and Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Monday regarding the ongoing Baltimore protests surrounding the death of Freddie Gray.
Following her swearing in Monday afternoon, Lynch updated Obama on the protests and death of Gray, which is currently being investigated by the Department of Justice.
"I condemn the senseless acts of violence by some individuals in Baltimore that have resulted in harm to law enforcement officers, destruction of property and a shattering of the peace in the city of Baltimore," Lynch said in a statement Monday night. "Those who commit violent actions, ostensibly in protest of the death of Freddie Gray, do a disservice to his family, to his loved ones, and to legitimate peaceful protestors who are working to improve their community for all its residents."
Lynch also noted that the Department of Justice is ready to assist in any way possible and that facts will be combed over meticulously to ensure a collaborative review.
"As our investigative process continues, I strongly urge every member of the Baltimore community to adhere to the principles of nonviolence. In the days ahead, I intend to work with leaders throughout Baltimore to ensure that we can protect the security and civil rights of all residents. And I will bring the full resources of the Department of Justice to bear in protecting those under threat, investigating wrongdoing, and securing an end to violence," Lynch added.
Rawlings-Blake updated the president earlier Monday on the ongoing looting, violence, and efforts to maintain peace throughout the city. Obama highlighted his commitment to assisting the situation as he continues to receive updates from Lynch and White House Senior Adviser Valerie Jarrett.