Minneapolis Officials Respond After Lynx Police Walkout

Minneapolis, MN – Tensions across the Twin Cities are high following the fatal police shooting of Philando Castile in Falcon Heights last week, and frustrated local officials have begun trading barbs.

When news broke that four off-duty Minneapolis police officers who signed up to work the Minnesota Lynx game walked off the job after players showed support for Black Lives Matter, Lt. Bob Kroll, president of the Minneapolis Police Federation, praised the officers for quitting.

"I commend them for it," he said.

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Kroll went on to jab the Lynx organization directly. "They only have four officers working the event because the Lynx have such a pathetic draw," Kroll said.

Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges didn't appear to hold anything back in her response to Kroll.

“While I do not condone the actions of the officers, I realize how every member of law enforcement throughout this country, including myself, is feeling right now," Harteau said in a news release.

"Everyone is hurting and we all need to find a way to come together. I am proud of our profession and the service our officers provide on a daily basis. Accountability is a must but police officers also deserve and need public support."

"Although these officers were working on behalf of the Lynx, when wearing a Minneapolis Police uniform I expect all officers to adhere to our core values and to honor their oath of office. Walking off the job and defaulting on their contractual obligation to provide a service to the Lynx does not conform to the expectations held by the public for the uniform these officers wear."

"I believe every cop wants what every American wants: a safe place to live. We are all in this together, and in the days and weeks ahead, I’m hopeful that common goal will guide the work that leads us to a better place.”

The Lynx did not wear the Black Lives Matter clothing at Tuesday’s game against San Antonio.

Image credit: Michael Hicks via Flickr / Creative Commons