The conviction of former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd, handed down in court late Tuesday afternoon, evoked thoughtful reactions from law enforcement and elected officials, and local activists.
Chief of Police Robert Bongiorno stated, “For far too many Americans, true justice in our society is going to take much more work than a single day’s news can bring. Today’s verdict is a step in the right direction and a true acknowledgment of a terrible and violent act committed by a man sworn to protect life as a police officer. Much work remains toward creating a criminal justice system that treats all humans humanely.”
He emphasized that “the men and women of the Bedford Police Department have worked extremely hard to gain the trust of our community members and stakeholders and we pledge to do everything in our power to earn and maintain that trust every day. As a public servant, I pledge partnership, alliance, and transparency.”
“What was especially troublesome was to hear the defense attempt to blame drug use for Mr. Floyd’s death,” observed Bedford State Rep. Kenneth Gordon. “Bedford Chief Bobby Bongiorno and I have traveled the country learning about ways to de-escalate anxious situations, especially when police officers are confronted with people suffering from drug dependency.”
“I am confident this situation would not happen here, because our officers are trained to respect every resident, and know that it is their job to instill calm, not to inflict violence,” he said.
Soon after Floyd died on May 25, 2020, Shannon Leonard and Mark Bailey organized a group called Stand Up for Black Lives Bedford. Members and supporters have been rallying on The Great Road along the Town Common almost every Friday afternoon and evening since.
“Four friends from Bedford got together to bring change and awareness to our town,” the two said in a statement. “Our numbers grew quickly that first week of June and by popular demand, we stayed most of the summer and beyond.”
“Today’s verdict is just one step in the right direction for us, for Bedford, and for America,” they continued. “As The New York Times pointed out since testimony in the trial started on March 29, more than three people a day have died at the hands of law enforcement in our country, which reminds us how much more work is ahead of us.”
“We will continue to do all we can to remind our neighbors that without a more just system, especially including major reform of policing, none of us can be at peace.”
Library Trustee Robin Grace echoed that note of caution. “It was a magnificent victory, and one many of us will savor, but I have to wonder; has anything really changed? The news I watch, and the statistics I read tell me no.”
“Until we see a significant change in law enforcement, and until we have accountability in every case when the red line is crossed, there can’t be true equality,” Grace said. “So, while Americans of all races stand in solidarity tonight, breathing a sigh of relief, let’s not forget the continued work to ensure justice for all.”
Chevanese Van Dyke, vice president of the schools’ Parent Diversity Council, said she felt “relieved” that Chauvin was found guilty. “I would like to think locally. I hope it gives everyone pause to just think of how we move forward and enact change,” she said, and this includes “creating sustainable change within the community that results in an ‘equitable world for us all.’”
Van Dyke said it’s important for the local community to maintain a trusting relationship with law enforcement and “vice versa.” She believes “continued dialogue” can help the community heal from this tragedy.
“The key to healing is being willing to listen and willing to hear. Everything is not one-sided, everything is not black and white. I think we just have to be open-minded and willing to listen to each other.”
Retired Superior Court Judge Robert A. Barton said situations such as this should be used as a learning experience for law enforcement. “The one thankful thing about Bedford is that Chief Bongiorno is a very fine chief who’s interested in making sure the law is followed. I’m sure that the Bedford Police Department is well instructed.”
Barton, a former town moderator who served on the bench for more than 20 years, offered a unique perspective. He said he paid attention to the judge and was “very impressed with the way he handled things.”
Barton explained that since the jury was selected from the same state the murder occurred, some members may have worried their identity would eventually be exposed, subsequently swaying their decision. “How the hell could they survive in that city if they ever came in with a not guilty?” the judge asked. Due to the publicity of the case, Barton said the trial should have been held in a small town elsewhere.
Yet he acknowledged that “The evidence was overwhelming, no question about it.” I think 99 percent of the time, juries do the right thing,” Barton said.
Gordon commented, “While we all wish we could address the pain and suffering of the people touched by George Floyd’s life, this jury made sure the person who caused his death would answer for it. Nobody is above the law. Not even a police officer. The jury considered the evidence and it was overwhelming. They did not shy from reaching a just result.”
Correction: Shannon Leonard, not photographer Shannon Dillon as first posted, worked with Mark Bailey to arrange the Stand Up for Black Lives demonstrations on Bedford Common since June 2020. Click this link to read Supporting Equality for All Americans, posted on June 2, 2020.
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I’m curious if the writers of this article sought out any dissenting opinions in regards to the verdicts in this case? It seems that everyone quoted in this article was in agreement with the guilty verdicts. Not everyone in our nation felt that the evidence was as clear cut. Not everyone felt all the charges were even justified (certainly some were). Many felt that this was a political trial, not an evidential trial, and tainted due to threats of riots, personal safety of the jurors, and political pressure to return guilty verdicts. I’m guessing you might find those opinions in our community as well. Just a thought and an advocacy for equal and fair reporting. Thank you.