Flossmoor Police Chief Talks Community After Derek Chauvin Trial

FLOSSMOOR, IL — Flossmoor Police Chief Tod Kamleiter released a statement to residents letting them know that following the verdict of the Derek Chauvin trail in the death of George Floyd, the department is focused on its relationship with the community.

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.

"I want to reaffirm to our residents the Flossmoor Police Department’s commitment to being a partner with our community and a law enforcement system that is fair for all," Kamleiter said in his statement.

"Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to have an open dialogue with many residents and I appreciate your willingness to engage with me candidly. We have made a concerted effort in increasing education and training in our department and in the past few years, our officers have undergone approximately 300 hours of training on topics like cultural competence and implicit bias. Members of our leadership team have also participated in training provided by the Government Alliance on Racial Equity and the North Shore YWCA Equity Institute.

Along with extensive training, the Flossmoor Police Department has updated its use of force policy to meet new federal guidelines on chokeholds, updated citizen comment/complaint forms, and will be implementing a body worn camera system later this year. It is my expectation that every member of the Flossmoor Police Department engages with members of the public respectfully and demonstrates integrity in all of our actions."

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."

"The Village of Flossmoor prides itself on being a welcoming, diverse and inclusive community and our residents and institutions support these values," Kamleiter said. "As a community we must continue to have meaningful dialogue and work together as we look toward a place of healing and unity. I am grateful for the trust you have in me. Members of the Flossmoor Police Department and I look forward to this important work in building trusted relationships with our community."