A MESSAGE REGARDING THE MINNEAPOLIS POLICE DEPARTMENT AND DEATH OF GEORGE FLOYD

Published: 05/28/2020

A short time ago, Chief Gonzalez sent an internal message to all Riverside Police Department personnel regarding the recent death of George Floyd and actions by the Minneapolis Police Officers captures on video.  He wanted to share this message with our entire community.

“The images captured in the video are extremely disturbing and depict many failures that appear to be the result of poor tactics, training and judgment.  As a core tenant, our officers are directed to respond to conflict at the appropriate level and to continually assess and adjust such levels upon signs of compliance.  Equally stressed, is that all officers assume a leadership role and that they are empowered to intervene, avoiding excessive outcomes.  Although occurring many states away, the actions taken by these officers, unfortunately erodes layers of public trust and reflects poorly on our profession.
 
We at the Riverside Police Department will continue to listen and engage with our community partners, to facilitate collective voices and open lines of communication.  The furtherance of our established relationships ensures a mutual respect for one another and an understanding that is necessary as we move forward together in humanity.
 
Thank you and be safe.”

- Larry V. Gonzalez