Elijah McClain case: Politicians, community leaders react to grand jury indictment

As news of the criminal indictments of three Aurora police officers and two paramedics in the 2019 death of Elijah McClain spread Wednesday, reactions rolled out across Colorado.

Here are what politicians, police representatives and community leaders had to say:

U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, D-Aurora

“While nothing can bring Elijah McClain back, this is a critical step in ensuring that justice is served on his behalf. I stand with Elijah’s family, friends, and community who mourn his loss. Today we join the community in seeking greater accountability and justice.”

Colorado Sen. Rhonda Fields, D-Aurora

“After two long years, we finally have some clarity on Elijah McClain’s case, and can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that these individuals will be held accountable for their vile actions. Today, I stand in solidarity with the McClain family, all of his loved ones, and the Aurora community, and commit to continue working together to advance meaningful criminal justice reform so we can create a world where Black lives truly do matter.”

Colorado Sen. Janet Buckner, D-Aurora

“Elijah McClain was a gentle soul who cared for others, who wanted to change the world, but whose precious life was taken from us much too soon. Far too often, instances of police violence wreak havoc on communities of color, and so many Black men and women do not get the justice and accountability they deserve. Today, we got some accountability and a real path toward justice.”

Aurora Police Association board of directors

“Immediately after Elijah McClain’s death, then Aurora Police Department Chief Nick Metz stated clearly that Mr. McClain was not murdered by Aurora Police Department officers. Nothing has changed. Our officers did nothing wrong. Sadly, Mr. McClain died due to a combination of exertion due to his decision to violently resist arrest and a pre-existing heart condition. He was alive and talking when the officers turned him over to EMS. There is no evidence that APD officers caused his death. The hysterical overreaction to this case has severely damaged the police department. Inevitably, the public are the ones who’ve paid the price. This fall, the public has the opportunity to restore sanity to this situation in the City Council elections. They should not take a return to normalcy for granted.”

Colorado Rep. Alec Garnett, House speaker and D-Denver

“Today’s indictments of three current and former Aurora officers and two paramedics is the progress toward justice that the McClain family and our communities have waited far too long to see. “I am grateful for the thorough investigation by the Attorney General’s Office and the Grand Jury. We haven’t seen the end of the road to justice in this case, but today was an important step in that journey.”

Colorado Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver

“Elijah McClain should be alive today, and while nothing will bring him back to his family and friends, I am encouraged that the Attorney General will now proceed with filing formal charges as a result of the grand jury indictments announced today.  Justice is moving forward because the people of Colorado elevated Elijah’s story to the entire world and demanded change and because of Sheneen McClain’s tireless fight for reforms and for Colorado’s first in the nation police accountability law. By bringing these charges – which include using ketamine as a deadly weapon – advancing criminal justice reforms and passing measures to hold law enforcement accountable, Colorado is making strides to advance the rule of law, improve trust in peace officers and ensure that those who break the law are held accountable.”

Gov. Jared Polis

“Elijah McClain’s death was a tragedy and my thoughts are with his mother, father, friends, and family today. This innocent young man should be here today. I thank Attorney General Phil Weiser and the members of the Grand Jury for their work to hold those responsible accountable,” said Governor Polis. “I continue to urge my fellow Coloradans to consider how we can work together to build a better future where everyone can be safe walking home and a Colorado for all.”

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