Heights Officials Comment On George Floyd's Death, Protests

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — In the wake of widespread protests and riots, Cleveland Heights City Manager Tanisha Briley and Police Chief Annette Mecklenburg issued a joint statement on the death of George Floyd.

"In the year 2020, it is insufferable that millions of Americans are still treated differently because of their race. In Cleveland Heights, we pride ourselves on the diversity and inclusion of our community and this disturbing legacy of excessive use of force, particularly in communities of color, is not acceptable," the two said in a statement to the community.

The protests were sparked by the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Floyd died after being arrested by Minneapolis police. Video of his arrest shows officer Derek Chauvin kneeling on Floyd's neck, while Floyd repeatedly says he "cannot breathe." Chauvin was charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter on Friday.

Floyd's death sparked protests in Minneapolis and around the nation. For several days, protesters and police have clashed in Columbus and Cleveland.

"Unfortunately, no community is immune to the racially charged episodes that we’ve witnessed most recently in Minneapolis, Louisville, Glynn County, and countless other places. We mourn these senseless deaths and send our prayers out to the families whose lives have been irrevocably changed because of the unnecessary loss of their loved one," the statement said.

Briley and Mecklenburg said they are working to create an equitable and fair city, including sending police to diversity training and emphasizing de-escalation tactics. Annual use of force training is required for all Cleveland Heights police.

"Having confidence in your police department is something we strive for through our outreach and actions. I hope you join us in commending our entire police department for their best practices and protection. We are committed to continue our current efforts and seek out the best approaches to ensure fairness and equity in our law enforcement policies, practices, and training," the statement said.

Briley and Mecklenburg encouraged residents to reach out with any concerns or questions they have and to continue caring for their neighbors.