Stamford Mayor Issues Statement On Derek Chauvin Guilty Verdict

STAMFORD, CT — Mayor David Martin released a statement Tuesday evening after Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer who was seen by people across the world with his knee on George Floyd's neck — an event that inspired mass protests for social justice — was found guilty of murder by a jury.

Chauvin, 45, was convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter in Floyd's death on Memorial Day 2020.

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"Many have wondered if there can be true justice in America for African American men," Martin said in a statement. "The conviction of Derek Chauvin for the death of George Floyd shows that it is possible. While we still have a long way to go, this case should reassure us that our country is moving in the right direction. We must continue to strive for that day when everyone is treated with respect and there is equal opportunity and justice for all."

Several Connecticut leaders also voiced their support of the verdict, including Gov. Ned Lamont, state Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff and U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, who represents Connecticut's 4th District.

For more on the Chauvin verdict, and its aftermath, see the Minneapolis Patch.