Guilford Police Chief Makes Statement On George Floyd Killing

GUILFORD, CT — Police departments 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 Wednesday, Guilford's police chief, Butch Hyatt, released a statement condemning the actions of officers involved in the death.

Here's the statement in full:

"The Guilford Police Department stands united in outrage with our community, the nation, and law enforcement agencies throughout the state, region, and country in regard to the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers. We have all seen the video. Officers like these men have no place in any police department and this echoes the feelings of police chiefs throughout our state. The president of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association, Keith Mello, said in a statement last week, 'Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, this is the foundation of our profession. Any violation of these core tenants is inexcusable.'

"The abhorrent actions of these officers were not representative of the multitude of good and caring police in this community and this country who work hard day in and day out to create and maintain trust, confidence and an open line of communication within their communities in order to best serve and protect everyone, and I emphasize, everyone. Moving forward, it will be the responsibility of the Guilford Police Department and all police departments to continue to work to repair relations between the police and their communities, that have been fractured by the appalling behavior of these men.

"To the people that live, work and travel to and through the Guilford community, know that the officers and the department are committed to your safety and security and will continue to serve with the honor, integrity and professionalism that you have come to expect and so rightfully deserve."
Butch Hyatt
Deputy Chief of Police

Read more:

• George Floyd Death: Former Cop Derek Chauvin Charged With Murder
• CT Residents Take To Streets, Highways In Protests