We understand peoples’ frustrations and respect protesters’ First Amendment rights to publicly grieve the tragic death of George Floyd.
But we can’t allow the coordinated criminal behavior and the destruction of property and livelihoods any longer.
Sadly, there are violent forces who are exploiting the real grief of George Floyd as an excuse to promote their own agendas.
My deputies and I will continue to fully support the statewide law enforcement response. We’ll confront the lawless behavior while still respectfully supporting those who are grieving.
Our mission at the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office is to care for and protect the people in our community, no matter what they look like, where they come from or their status in life. By following our mission, we’ll honor the memory of George Floyd.
Finally, I’ll echo the pleas of other law enforcement and faith leaders who are begging people to please obey the curfews tonight. The bad people are counting on hiding among the good for cover for their actions. The curfew lets us more easily identify those who are out do harm to our community rather than those trying to improve it.