This week a grand jury filed 32 criminal charges, including manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide, against the police officers and paramedics involved in the deadly arrest of Elijah McClain in 2019. The Vera Institute of Justice issued the following statement:

“Indicting those involved in the killing of Elijah McClain is an important step toward accountability. It shows the consequences of police encounters, especially in situations that pose no serious threat to public safety. An Aurora, CO resident called 911 to report someone ‘suspicious’ and ‘acting weird’ while walking home from the grocery store. Changing how law enforcement operates in communities and holding first responders accountable for taking lethal action is integral to preventing incidents like this in the future. Vera will continue to advocate for investing in services that build and support safe communities where everyone can thrive.”