George Floyd Killing 'Reprehensible, Inexcusable': Ambler PD

AMBLER, PA — As protests and riots hit the greater Philadelphia area related to the killing of George Floyd, Ambler was among the local muncipalities whose police departments issued a statement to the community.

The department's chief of police, Robert Hoffman, called the death of Floyd, 46, a Minneapolis man who was killed after police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for nine minutes, "reprehensible" and "beyond inexcusable."

The incident sparked protests and riots in cities around the country. Demonstrations hit Philadelphia and the southeastern Pennsylvania suburbs Saturday night into early Sunday morning, with fires and damage done to businesses. Even the King of Prussia Mall and other parts of the suburbs were impacted.

All told hundreds were arrested in Philadelphia, and more than a dozen officers were injured. Unrest continued into Monday.

In addition to condemning Floyd's killing, Hoffman wanted to reassure residents that Ambler was committed to "fair and non-biased" police work.

Here's the full statement issued by Hoffman over the weekend:

"What occurred in Minneapolis is deeply disturbing. The acts committed with disregard for human life were reprehensible. I was outraged when I viewed the video and observed the way George Floyd was treated, to watch other police officers stand by without intervention, goes beyond inexcusable. These acts cannot be tolerated; there is certainly a need for accountability.

I want to assure the residents of Ambler Borough that we are committed to providing fair, non-biased policing. We strive to protect and serve the community with respect and dignity to all our citizens and visitors. Discrimination based on race, religion, or sexual orientation will not be tolerated. I pledge to continue to work with the community to make Ambler Borough a better place to live and work. All citizens of Ambler Borough deserve to feel safe and respected.

We are committed to continue to improve our ability to serve the community. Through on-going police training, open dialogue, and community input, I know we can work together to make Ambler even better. Our sympathies go out to George Floyd’s family and loved ones. I know that trust must be earned in our communities, and I will do everything possible to protect and honor your rights."