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New York Officials React to Grand Jury Decision

December 4, 2014

New York City Mayor Bill Deblasio says he welcomes the federal investigation into Eric Garner’s death.

Governor Andrew Cuomo says the federal investigation may be appropriate, and the governor says he stands with the garner family and urged peaceful protests.    “Eric Garner was a husband, father and member of the New York family,” said Cuomo.  “The circumstances surrounding his death were nothing short of tragic.

And while there will be people who disagree with today’s grand jury decision, it is important that we respect the legal process and rule of law. At the same time, the justice system also allows for additional investigations and reviews, and it may be appropriate for the federal government to do so in this case. And if there are improvements to be made and lessons to be learned, we at the state level are ready to act to better the system.  I stand with the Garner family and urge those wishing to voice their opposition to today’s ruling to do so peacefully,” the governor said. “My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Garner’s family and friends as they continue to grieve during this difficult time.”

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman also wants the protesters to stay peaceful.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand supports the U.S. Attorney General’s office investigation into the death of Garner, and Gillibrand was very disappointed in the grand jury decision.   “While this decision is shocking, I want to echo the statement of a wide range of leaders inside and outside of government who are urging that protests remain peaceful in the aftermath of this decision. The death of Eric Garner is a tragedy that demands accountability. Nobody unarmed should die on a New York City street corner for suspected low-level offenses. I’m shocked by this grand jury decision,” Gillibrand stated.


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