Rep. Robinson statement on verdict in Chauvin trial

State Rep. Phil Robinson (D-Solon) made a statement on the outcome of the George Floyd murder trial, where former police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter.

“Last summer, our nation watched in horror as George Floyd was killed by a white police officer before our very eyes. The impact of this tragedy was not only felt by George Floyd’s family and friends, but by the entire country. Americans witnessed this injustice and took to the streets in protest to vocalize their anger, frustration, sorrow, despair, with the hope that justice would be served. 

“There have unfortunately been many times in the past where the judicial system has failed vulnerable communities and victims of police brutality… but not in this case. It is my sincere hope that this verdict will allow George Floyd’s family to begin to heal and find peace. Unfortunately, there is no verdict that will bring George Floyd back to his family. There will always be an empty seat at their table where he once sat, a reality that too many black families in America face today.  

“Derick Chauvin was held accountable for his actions, but only when our nation truly addresses the debilitating effects of systematic racism, will justice fully be served. We must use this verdict as a turning point to begin the work to tackle the issue of racism wherever it may be found, including in law enforcement and our judicial system.  

“As Americans, we all must continue to advocate for change and for equality for all. We must be a nation where Black Lives Matter. We must hold ourselves to a higher standard. This is the only the beginning. There is much more work that needs to be done,” said Rep. Robinson.