BALTIMORE – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) released the following statement on the judge’s verdict in the criminal trial of Baltimore City Police Officer Edward Nero:

“As someone who was born and raised in Baltimore City, I have watched closely the emotional events and judicial proceedings that followed Freddie Gray’s tragic death. Under our system of justice, we must respect the verdict in this case. In the coming weeks and months several other Baltimore City police officers also will stand trial.

“The death of Freddie Gray was a national tragedy that sparked a national conversation about the need for justice and opportunity in the African-American community. No verdict will bring back Freddie Gray to his family and his community but we must ensure we continue the dialogue and the hard work to rebuild the trust between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they are sworn to protect and defend.

“I continue to be in regular contact with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) as it conducts its pattern-and-practice investigation into the Baltimore Police Department.  I called for this investigation along with the rest of the Congressional delegation after the death of Freddie Gray.  We hope DOJ will recommend changes that will help Baltimore City evolve into a positive model for strong and effective community policing.”

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