Pepper Spray at Protest

Like most people, I was very disturbed to learn that a young African American boy was pepper-sprayed during a protest yesterday evening in downtown Minneapolis. I support the right of people to peacefully protest, and recognize that much of the progress we are making in our discussions about racial disparities in the criminal justice system are due to the power of grassroots organizing and protest.

 I thank Police Chief Janee Harteau and Mayor Hodges for taking this incident seriously and I look forward to hearing the results of those investigations.

 Here's Chief Harteau's statement:

"I am launching a full investigation into the concerns brought forth this evening. Our investigation will include gathering surveillance video and interviewing witnesses. I understand and appreciate people's concerns and will gather the full set of facts as quickly as possible. I assure everyone this will be a thorough investigation.”