Governor, Mayor React To Officers Charged In Freddie Gray Investigation
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- When Baltimore State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby walked out to speak, no one was expecting the stunning news that was about to break.
Mike Hellgren has more.
"The findings of our comprehensive, thorough and independent investigation, coupled with the medical examiner's determination that the death was a homicide...led us to believe that we have probable cause to file criminal charges," said Marilyn Mosby.
All centered on the death of 25-year-old Freddie Gray, who was taken into custody by Baltimore City police.
The departments and the state's attorney's own investigations allege the ride inside that van ultimately killed Freddie Gray.
"Following transport from Baker Street, Mr. Gray suffered a severe and critical neck injury," Mosby said.
Six Baltimore City police officers involved in the arrest and transport of Gray were formally charged with crimes ranging from second degree depraved heart murder to manslaughter, assault and false imprisonment.
Official reaction was swift.
"As mayor, I have said from the beginning that no one is above the law in our city. I was sickened and heartbroken by the statement charging we heard today," said Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.
"We finally got the process moving forward but it's a process. The criminal justice has to work its way through; I believe in the criminal justice system," said Governor Larry Hogan.
And it started Friday morning.
"A warrant has been issued for their arrest," Mosby said.
In a statement, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake said, "As mayor, I have said from the beginning that no one is above the law in our city. I was sickened and heartbroken by the statement of charges we heard today. No one is above the law in our city. Justice must apply to all of us equally.
With today's official indictment, I have ordered Police Commissioner Batts to utilize the full extent of his legal authority and immediately suspend, without pay, all officers facing felony charges. In fact, warrants have been executed and all officers are in custody.
We know that the vast majority of the men and women of the Baltimore Police Department continue to serve our city with pride, courage, and distinction. But to those who engage in brutality, misconduct, racism and corruption: there is no place for you in the Baltimore Police Department. Today's indictments are the next step in the legal process that is running its course.
I will continue to be relentless in changing the culture of the police department to ensure that everyone in the City of Baltimore is treated equally under the law.
There will be justice for Mr. Gray, his family, and for the people of Baltimore."
