Both said they support a peaceful march this weekend protesting George Floyd’s death.
Frederick, Md (KM) During a Monday morning briefing at City Hall, Frederick Mayor Michael O’Connor condemned action by a Minneapolis Police Officer which led to the death of George Floyd. He said the city is “dismayed and angered” by these and other similar actions taken against persons of color.
“We join those in our community calling for justice,”: O’Connor said. “And re-balancing of the scales in a system that for hundreds of years in America that has been designed to work against minorities, the poor, the marginalized and the vulnerable.”
Acting Police Chief Patrick Grossman had similar comments. “The actions of those officers are not consistent with instituted training standards of procedures,:” he said. “In addition, this incident, and other similar, continues to destroy the fabric that combines us a one community.”
A video posted on line shows Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin kneeling on George Floyd’s neck. Floyd said he couldn’t bleed. The officer’s knee was not removed from Floyd’s neck until an ambulance arrive at the scene. Floyd died. Officer Chauving has been fired from the police department and charged with 3rd-degree murder and 2nd-degree manslaughter.
In Frederick, citizens are planning to hold a march in the downtown area to protest Floyd’s death, and similar actions taken against persons of color by police and other citizens. The Mayor said he supports the efforts of these citizens who peacefully protest. “We have reached out to the organizers of these events and it is our intention to meet with them in advance of their activity,” he responded. “We’re willing to provide whatever support they believe is helpful so they can achieve what they want to achieve. And I believe that’s about being heard and being seen.”
“I will be there with protesters and demonstrators to participate with them, and other officers to show their support,” said Acting Chief Grossman. “We view the incident in Minneapolis as egregious as they do.”
The protest in Frederick is expected to get underway on Friday at 2:00 PM along North Market Street.
By Kevin McManus