Holding that the death of African-American Freddie Gray in police custody was a case of homicide caused by severe trauma, Baltimore authorities have charged six officers for the death that sparked off widespread rioting and arson in the port city earlier this week.
“I assured his (Gray’s) family that no one is above the law and I would pursue justice on their behalf,” State Attorney Marilyn Mosby said as she announced the charges, adding warrants had been issued for the arrest of all six officers, who had earlier been suspended pending the probe.
The announcement of charges was greeted with cheers, applause and dancing on the streets of Baltimore, with some African-Americans chanting in delight: “Justice! Justice! Justice!”
The Fraternal Order of Police, however, sought to defend the officers, asserting: “As tragic as this situation is, none of the officers involved are responsible for the death of Mr. Gray.”
The six police officers face criminal charges, including second-degree murder and manslaughter, in the death of the 25-year-old black man who was arrested and suffered fatal spinal injuries in custody while he was being driven in a police van.
Stating that her office came to its conclusions after a “comprehensive, thorough and independent” investigation, Attorney Mosby said it was found that the officers had placed Gray in wrist and ankle restraints and left him stomach-down on the floor of a police van as they drove around West Baltimore.
Despite his repeated requests for medical attention, they did not provide it and continued to drive without securing him in the van, The Baltimore Sun reported, quoting Mosby.