Rep. Brent issues statement regarding verdict for hate crime charges against Ahmaud Arbery's killers

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Juanita O. Brent (D-Cleveland) released the following statement regarding the verdict that Ahmaud Arbery’s killers were motivated by his race and violated his civil rights. Travis McMichael, Gregory McMichael, and William Bryan were all found guilty of committing federal hate crimes.

“Jogging while Black should not lead to death. Even though justice has been served, it does not change the outcome for Ahmaud Arbery,” said Rep. Brent. “Implicit bias trainings, cultural competency trainings, and diversity equity inclusion departments within all schools and jobs must be required so that we can ensure the safety and security of all Americans.”

This federal guilty verdict is in addition to the state trial last year, which found all three men guilty of murder and sentenced them to life in prison. If sentenced with the maximum penalty, these men could face an additional life sentence.