New Hopkinton Police Chief Speaks Out On George Floyd Killing

HOPKINTON, MA — Hopkinton's new police chief Joseph Bennett is using his first few months in office to reassure residents that the Hopkinton Police Department stands against injustice and racism. Bennett issued a statement condemning the death of George Floyd in police custody.

Floyd was the Minneapolis man whose death was caught on video, as a Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck. The viral video has sparked protests and a call for change and an end to police brutality throughout the country.

Bennett highlighted and applauded the actions of Hopkinton residents who protested in town on Sunday.

"As those present experienced in person and others saw in the amazing photos posted in the news, your Police Officers stood in support of the protest and closed Marathon Way to assist the protesters in being more visible to the cars passing by the common," the statement reads.

The letter closes with Bennett mentioning a viral video of George Floyd’s daughter Gianna sitting atop a man’s shoulders saying "Daddy changed the world!"

"As the Police Officer’s Oath reads in part ...”I do, solemnly swear and affirm that I will faithfully and impartially discharge and perform my duties incumbent on me...” Today and every day I further pledge to all of you that I will work together with my team and the community to ensure Gianna’s beautiful voice becomes a lasting truth. Should there be any questions or concerns I am here at your service," the statement reads.