George Floyd's Death 'Never Should Have Happened': Sheriff

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Just hours after Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called for the arresting officer in the George Floyd case to be charged in his death, Lake County Sheriff John Idleburg shared a message with residents, calling Floyd's death a "tragedy that never should have happened."

The FBI and Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension have been called in to investigate after Floyd died following his arrest Monday night in Minneapolis. In a now-viral video, Floyd can be heard saying he could not breathe as an officer used his knee to pin Floyd down by his neck.

Idleburg's message came as protests and riots over Floyd's death continued in Minneapolis, and he reminds community members across Lake County of the importance of delivering important messages in a peaceful, nonviolent manner.

More Patch coverage:

• George Floyd’s Girlfriend: Riots Would Have Devastated Him
• George Floyd: 4 Cops At The Scene Identified
• George Floyd Had No Pulse When Put Into Ambulance: Report
• Trump On Death Of George Floyd: 'Justice Will Be Served!'

In a news release sent to Patch, the Idleburg had this message:

“Over the last several days, I have been reflecting on the death of George Floyd, who unnecessarily died while in the custody of the Minneapolis, Minnesota Police Department. I am not one to ordinarily jump to conclusions, but the video of this tragic incident should shock the moral consciousness of every member of our society. What happened to Mr. Floyd is a tragedy that never should have happened.

As your sheriff, I believe it is important to address this matter with the community we serve. This is the year 2020 and law-enforcement across our nation should understand we are guardians of our community, we are protectors of our community, we serve our community, and we are nothing without the trust and support of our community. What tragically happened to Mr. Floyd at the hands of those sworn to serve and protect creates a significant hole in the moral fabric of the relationship law-enforcement has built with our communities.

Honestly speaking, there is no doubt the incident in Minneapolis creates tension and anxiety in every community across our country, especially in communities of color. It is important that everyone in Lake County knows the Lake County Sheriff’s Office is here to work with them – not against them. The men and women serving at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office are true professionals. Our staff is trained to deescalate situations, communicate effectively and efficiently with the community, not use force unless absolutely necessary, and when using force – using the minimum amount necessary. Our staff understands the philosophy that justice is served in a courtroom, not on the street.

We take the trust and faith you instill in us very seriously and we believe and apply the concepts of procedural justice and legitimacy. We hold ourselves to a high standard, hold ourselves accountable, and it is only fair the community hold us to those same standards. I am proud of the men and women of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and I certainly hope you are as well.

We understand how upsetting and hurtful this incident is to our communities across the country. Speaking, marching, or protesting are completely acceptable ways to express oneself, but we have to remember doing this peacefully is paramount. Rioting, causing damage, personal injury, and destruction is no way to deliver a message. Governments across America should always be willing to listen to the people, but it is so important messages are delivered in a peaceful, nonviolent manner, or the message is likely to go unheard.

Mr. Floyd’s death will not be in vain and will serve a pivotal piece in emphasizing the importance of police accountability. The Floyd family has the deepest condolences of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.”

The four Minneapolis police officers at the scene of Floyd's arrest have since been fired. Frey announced the news Tuesday, saying it was "the right call." >> The latest in this case.

>> 'We Will Get Through This': Message From Lake County Sheriff

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