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Virginia Sheriffs’ Association
The Voice of Virginia’s Sheriffs & Deputies

Richmond, VA – On behalf of the members of the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association, I want to address the situation unfolding in Minneapolis.  The acts committed by the Minneapolis police officer that resulted in the death of George Floyd appear nothing short of criminal conduct.

In addition to the immediate actions of prosecution of those responsible for this act, there should also be an accountability of the culture that lead to it.  It is our hope that both of these issues can be swiftly addressed for the family of Mr. Floyd, the community of Minneapolis, and the nation.

Sheriffs in the Commonwealth of Virginia are Constitutional Officers, who answer directly to the people. Sheriffs and their Deputies are an extension of their communities, with public trust and public safety at the core of their service.  Incidents like this remind us that we must continually be accountable to the people we serve and fairly exercise our obligations and responsibilities while protecting life and property.

I know the men and women who serve in the Sheriffs Offices and other law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth of Virginia are committed to protecting their communities and maintaining this solemn trust.

On behalf of the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association, I extend our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Floyd.  I pray for the people of Minneapolis, that they may have peace return to their community.

 

Sheriff Timothy Carter

President, Virginia Sheriffs’ Association