FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Contact: Jessie Knudsen, Jessie.knudsen@co.thurston.wa.us

Olympia, WA -- On Monday May 25, 2020, we witnessed the tragic and unnecessary death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The image of Mr. Floyd being brutally restrained by police officers was difficult to watch and deeply disturbing. In Thurston County, we feel the impact of this tragedy and condemn this violent and senseless loss of life. The conduct of the officers involved gravely diminishes the honorable work of the many professional law enforcement officers in our country and our community. On behalf of the men and women in the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, I want to extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. Floyd's loved ones. We hear and support those who raise their voices in peace against racism, police brutality and inequity.

Our office is comprised of a diverse group of professionals, united in our condemnation of racism, racial profiling, and bigotry in our community and the justice system. As prosecutors, it is our responsibility to hold those who violate the law accountable including those responsible for enforcing the law. We are committed to serving our community equally, compassionately, and with an earnest desire for justice.

We know that our justice system must be fair and equitable to earn the trust of the community it serves. In the wake of this tragedy, we reaffirm our commitment to building trust and protecting the safety of all people in our community. Above all, we remain hopeful that together we can create a better future for our entire community while acknowledging this crisis as a reminder of how much work remains to be done.