George Floyd Death: Maryland Leaders Condemn Deadly Arrest Caught On Video
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison released a video Friday sharing his thoughts on the video that captured the deadly arrest of George Floyd.
"The killing of George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement is both deeply horrific and heartbreaking. What we saw in the video was disgusting and shocking to the conscience," Harrison said. "This does not represent the calling of our officers to serve and protect with dignity and respect."
WATCH LIVE: Coverage of George Floyd's Death and the Minneapolis Protests
"Minneapolis Police Chief Arradondo's decision to terminate the officers involved was absolutely necessary, and my leadership team and I support his decisive action," he said, adding, "The Baltimore Police Department remains committed to rebuilding and earning the trust of the communities we serve through fair, equitable, and dignified treatment of all in our fight for justice."
READ MORE:
- George Floyd Death: Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan Says It's Not Fair To Compare With Freddie Gray Case
- Marilyn Mosby Defends Decision To Quickly Charge Officers In Freddie Gray Case After Attorney Compares It With George Floyd Investigation
"The death of George Floyd has shaken America to its core. This cannot be what the policing profession stands for. We can and we must ensure that all officers intervene in the bad actions of others so that we prevent incidents like this from happening," Harrison said."I stand with leaders from across the country and our communities to call for these officers to be held accountable for their abhorrent actions and for justice to be served."
Anne Arundel County's Police Chief also commented in a press conference, where he was joined by leaders of Maryland's African American community.
"Every right-thinking police officer in this country was disgusted by what they saw on that video. Human life matters. We exist to protect it." he said.
He urged people to protest peacefully and they will be there to protect them.
Baltimore police said they have a plan in case protests break out in Baltimore.
Watch for coverage from WCCO, CBS Minnesota.
