SPRINGFIELD – Following the guilty verdict issued to Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) released the following statement:

“George Floyd should be alive today. His murder was a preventable tragedy that occurred as a result of extremely poor judgement, professional misconduct and blatant disregard for human life. The verdict will not bring back Mr. Floyd’s life, however, I hope that it can ease the Floyd family’s pain, anger and frustration.

As a nation, state, and community it is essential we join together to better understand one another. This requires a dedicated commitment to repairing a fractured relationship between communities of color and those sworn to serve and protect them – regardless of race, gender or background. We can and must do better.”