SAN ANTONIO — The eyes of the country were on Minnesota Tuesday afternoon, where a judge returned a verdict convicting former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin of murdering George Floyd in early 2020. Now, the nation is responding, including San Antonio area leaders.
U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro and former San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro were among the first to tweet about the verdict:
Democratic U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett said the verdict represented "a historic step toward justice."
Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales said this must serve as a moment to create change that restores trust between the community and the criminal justice system.
Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said the following:
“Justice has been served. My hope is that the verdict reached and the changes being brought about bring solace to Mr. Floyd’s family and the community at large.”
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg called the verdict part of "the quest for true social and racial justice."
“Justice was served by the jury’s decision, and the verdict properly holds Derek Chauvin accountable for his actions. But the verdict doesn’t bring George Floyd back or end the heartbreak suffered by his family. Our nation still has long way to go in the quest for true social and racial justice. Today’s decision is an important and positive step in the right direction.”
San Antonio District 2 Councilwoman Jada Andrews-Sullivan said there is "still a marathon to peace" following the verdict:
"It’s by the grace of God! Today let the healing start. We saw what happens when we look at the merits of the case and not at the color of the skin we’re in. Eight minutes and forty-six seconds brought us a change but, let us not forget; Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. This is still a marathon to peace and unity for all. We need to understand that this is our chance to be about the business of the human race and not continue the stigma of racism. Let us remember the call for action, liberty, and justice for all.”
Chauvin is expected to be sentenced in June.