Sen. Hastings Reacts To Guilty Verdict In Derek Chauvin Case

DISTRICT 19 — State Senator Michael Hastings provided commentary to the public, following the guilty verdict read Tuesday to Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Chauvin was charged in the death of Floyd, a Black man who died after Chauvin kneeled on him for more than nine minutes, despite Floyd's protests that he could not breathe. Floyd's death sparked nationwide protests demanding racial justice and police reform.

Floyd's arrest and death — captured on a bystander video — were seen across the globe. A jury found Chauvin guilty on all counts of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in George Floyd's death.

Hastings (D-Frankfort) is hopeful that the verdict will ease the Floyd family's pain.

"George Floyd should be alive today," Hastings said in a news release. "His murder was a preventable tragedy that occurred as a result of extremely poor judgement, professional misconduct and blatant disregard for human life. The verdict will not bring back Mr. Floyd’s life, however, I hope that it can ease the Floyd family’s pain, anger and frustration."

Hastings went on to say that as a whole, we should join forces to understand each other and do better to repair broken bonds.

"As a nation, state, and community it is essential we join together to better understand one another. This requires a dedicated commitment to repairing a fractured relationship between communities of color and those sworn to serve and protect them – regardless of race, gender or background. We can and must do better."

The verdict — which took about 10 hours to reach —was read Tuesday afternoon.

In Chicago, more than 100 members of the Illinois National Guard were called in ahead of the anticipated verdict. Days off were cancelled for Chicago police officers, and Mayor Lori Lightfoot issued a warning to potential looters: "Don't test us."

Moments after the verdict was delivered, Lightfoot released a statement that expressed relief and gratitude for the jury. The celebratory tone is a stark contrast to her threats towards potential rioters on Monday.

"Today marks a moment where future generations can look back and see that we as a nation came together and rightfully demanded justice and accountability," said Lightfoot. "And justice was served."

Patch Editor Eileen O'Gorman contributed to this report.