Sen. Emil Jones Reacts To Guilty Verdict In Derek Chauvin Case

DISTRICT 14 — State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) 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.

"I’m relieved that the jury found Derek Chauvin guilty of murdering George Floyd," Jones said in a news release. "The criminal justice system hasn’t always treated the Black community fairly, but in this case, justice was served."

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

"This verdict will only go so far in easing the pain of the Floyd family and other Black Americans," Jones said. "We should never have to fear being killed by police officers."

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.

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