Elected Officials React to Verdict in Sean Bell Murder Case
April 25, 2008
(Queens, N.Y.) Senate Democratic Leader Malcolm A. Smith (D-St. Albans) and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg joined other elected officials in calling for calm today in Queens following the controversial acquittal in the Sean Bell murder case.
In light of the decision by the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the allegations from the community of police misconduct in the case, Sen. Smith, Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Queens), and other elected officials from around the U.S. are scheduled to meet in Washington, D.C. on Monday. The elected officials appeared together today when they announced the renovation of the Workforce One Job Development Center. In a statement released today, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that it will initiate its own probe into the Sean Bell case.
“The past seventeen months have been extremely difficult on the families involved, as well as our community. With the verdict in, we must now look to begin the healing process. We must move forward as a community. No verdict can stop the pain of Nicole Bell, his widow, or his family.
It appeared that the evidence presented by the prosecution was compelling and conclusive. Based on our understanding of the evidence and the circumstances, three accused police officers fired a total of 50 bullets at three unarmed and innocent young men, killing Sean Bell and severely wounding Jose Guzman and Trent Benefield.
We will continue to support the Bell family and the survivors of the incident. Though we understand and share the frustration that many New Yorkers are feeling at this moment, we caution against giving into that frustration. Instead, we urge all who are disappointed with the decision to channel their energy into supporting the families’ intention to seek a special federal prosecutor. On behalf of our communities, we intend to file a complaint with U.S. Justice Department to investigate alleged police misconduct in this case. In the near future the Tri-Level Legislative Taskforce, which held city-wide public hearings, will release its final recommendation. We must remain committed to a justice system that is fair to all.” said Senate Democratic Leader Malcolm A. Smith
Photo: (L-R) Queens Borough President Helen Marshall, Queens City Councilman Thomas White(D-Queens), Senate Democratic Leader Malcolm A. Smith(D-St. Albans), New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan), New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, New York City Deputy Mayor Dennis Walcott, Small Business Commissioner Rob Walsh and Queens City Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-Queens).
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