Mayor, Police Chief Issue Statements On Derek Chauvin Verdict

NORWALK, CT — Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, a former chief of police in Norwalk, and current Police Chief Thomas Kulhawik issued statements that justice was served in the guilty verdict against former Minnesota police officer Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd.

"Today’s guilty verdict confirms what we have known for nearly a year: Derek Chauvin’s
actions were criminal and he needed to be held accountable," Rilling said. "Each moment of this trial was gut-wrenching and heartbreaking. While today’s guilty verdict will not bring George Floyd back to his family and friends, I hope it brings them a sense of peace and closure."

Chauvin, a veteran police officer, was found guilty of all three of the charges he faced, second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. Floyd was killed during an arrest on Memorial Day last year.

"Police Officers are here to protect and serve us, the community," Rilling added. "I firmly believe that a majority of officers take their oaths and responsibility to protect seriously. However, any
officer who abuses their power or who watches silently and allows it to happen is not fit to
wear the badge of honor. They tarnish the badge of all the good officers who serve with
distinction."

Kulhawik agreed, stressing that the actions that Chauvin displayed were not part of policing.

"Mayor Rilling was very eloquent in his response," Kulhawik said. "I thought the Attorney General for Minnesota in his press conference also had excellent comments when he said that what we saw on the video of what occurred was just plain wrong, and Chauvin was held accountable for it."

Kulhawik continued, "It was saddening for all of us in law enforcement to watch that. We need to continue to work to rebuild trust with the community as events like this obviously damage that, whether in Minnesota or elsewhere."

Several Connecticut leaders also voiced their support of the verdict, including Gov. Ned Lamont, state Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff and Congressman Jim Himes.

Rilling said officers have to know that with this verdict, "there will be consequences" for illegal actions.

"Good cops should not protect bad officers," Rilling said. "I commend the law enforcement
officials who spoke out against Derek Chauvin during this trial. We need officers to speak up
more often. When I think of all the officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, who
continue to serve us honorably day in, day out, this verdict supports them.

"Today’s guilty verdict is a historic decision not only for George Floyd, but for all victims of
police violence. Philando Castile. Ahmaud Arbery. Breonna Taylor. Their names remain fresh
in our hearts and minds. Too often, families, friends, loved ones, and entire communities
are left with pain and anguish when justice is not served.

"Today, justice prevailed for George Floyd."