Michigan Sheriffs Speak On George Floyd Death

MACOMB COUNTY, MI — A pair of Southeast Michigan sheriffs on Friday issued a statement regarding the death of George Floyd, a black man who died earlier this week while in custody of Minneapolis police, and the protests that followed.

Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said the actions of police officers during Floyd's death and subsequent actions during protests that followed "are not in any way condoned by (his) office."

"I am aware that this could be a matter of angst for the communities we patrol. 'Determined to keep your trust. Working to keep you safe.' This is the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office motto and we stand by it," Wickersham said.

Michael Bouchard, Oakland County's Sheriff, also issued a statement Friday, posing similar sentiments as Wickersham.

"The actions of all the officers involved are deplorable," Bouchard said. "This goes for the officers who caused the death as well as those who stood by and did nothing. They must be held accountable."

Floyd's death was recorded on video, showing him gasping for air while a Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck for nearly eight minutes. The video, recorded by a bystander, Floyd pleaded to the officer that he could not breath until he slowly stopped talking and became still.

The video quickly went viral, sparking nationwide protests calling for police reform and demanding justice for Floyd.

Protests have taken place across the nation, in some instances becoming violent, with gunshots fired at protests in Denver. A protest is planned for Friday afternoon in Detroit.

"We understand the importance of partnering with our communities and not only building, but keeping trust," Wickersham said. "The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office is here to serve our public and works diligently to stay transparent and keep the lines of communication open. We believe in working together and count on the community’s assistance in solving crimes."

"We cannot let this define us," Bouchard said. "As a profession and individually, we must go out of our way to ensure communities of color know this is not what professional policing looks like."