East Haven Mayor: We Must 'Work To Root Out Racism'

EAST HAVEN, CT — Police departments and city governments across the country have released statements amid protests and unrest in the wake of George Floyd's death while in police custody. One officer was later arrested and charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter.

On Thursday, East Haven Mayor Joseph A. Carfora released a statement addressing the death and an upcoming peaceful protest in the city.

Here's the statement in full:

"Like you all I am watching the events that are unfolding across the country. It is obvious that there is a tremendous amount of frustration and anger about the senseless death of Mr. George Floyd. No one can accept the actions of those four Minneapolis police officers. However, it is naive to think that this sad event is the sole reason for these displays of frustration and anger. With that being said, we must always stand up for fundamental fairness, human rights and collectively work to root out racism. In our history many have given their lives so that citizens can exercise the right to freely protest and to voice divergent opinions. While we can accept peaceful and lawful protest, we will not accept violence and destruction.

Chief Lennon and his staff are in constant contact with law enforcement and social groups throughout the area and they are monitoring what we believe will be a peaceful event in our community later this week. This morning I was briefed on our department’s preparedness given current events and I am confident that our department is taking the necessary steps to make sure that everyone will be safe."

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• Branford Police Make Statement On George Floyd Killing
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