Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn J. Mosby announced on Friday that she had filed murder, manslaughter, and assault charges against city police officers following the death of 25-year-old Freddie Gray.
Gray died on April 19 after being injured while in police custody.
“The manner of death deemed a homicide by the Maryland state medical examiner is believed to be the result of a fatal injury that occurred while Mr. Gray was punrestrained by a seat belt in the custody of the Baltimore police department wagon,” Mosby said at a morning news conference.
Cheers could be heard in the crowd when Mosby announced that “we have probable cause to file criminal charges.”
She said that six officers would face charges, including second-degree murder, manslaughter and assault, and that a warrant had been issued for their arrest at about 9:30 a.m. Friday.
“I’ve heard your calls for ‘no justice, no peace,'” Mosby said. “However, your peace is sincerely needed as I work to deliver justice on behalf of Freddie Gray.”
“This is a moment, this is your moment,” she told protestors. “Let’s ensure that we have peaceful and productive rallies that will develop structural and systemic changes for generations to come. You’re at the forefront of this cause, and as young people, our time is now.”
Mosby noted that she came from a family of police officers and that the charges against the officers were not a broadside against the entire police force.
“I can tell you that the actions of these officers will not and should not in any way damage the important working relationships between police and prosecutors as we continue to fight together to reduce crime in Baltimore,” she added.
Officer Caesar Goodson’s charges include second-degree depraved heart murder, involuntary manslaughter, second-degree negligent assault, manslaughter by vehicle by means of gross negligence, and failure to render aid.
Lt. Brian Rice faces charges including involuntary manslaughter, second degree assault, and false imprisonment.
Officer Edward Nero faces charges including involuntary manslaughter, second degree assault, and false imprisonment.
Officer William Porter’s charges include involuntary manslaughter, and assault in the second degree.
Officer Garrett Miller is being charged with intentional assault, second degree assault, and false imprisonment.
Sgt. Alicia White is being charged with manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter, and second degree assault.
On Thursday, the State Medical Examiner’s Office determined the death was a homicide and turned its findings over to prosecutors.
This post has been updated.
