Authorities with multiple Northeast Louisiana law enforcement agencies have released a joint statement following the death of George Floyd in Minnesota.
The statement is as follows:
As law enforcement officers of Lincoln and Union Parishes, we are all saddened by the tragic death of George Floyd. Those responsible must be prosecuted and held accountable. The fair administration of justice demands nothing less and we are committed to the fair administration of justice.
One of the best statements about this current tragedy is from former NFL Coach Tony Dungy. “What happened to George Floyd was inexcusable and it should never happen. Justice needs to be served, but in seeking justice we can’t fall into the trap of prejudging every police officer we see.” Dungy said. We condemn the actions of those who defile the memory of Mr. Floyd by committing theft, arson and violence in response to his tragic death.
The scriptures tell us that the Lord requires of us to do justice and not to be overcome by evil, but to overcome evil with good. (Micah 6:8 and Romans 12:21)
Just a few days ago, on Memorial Day, we honored those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. In our country, those freedoms include justice for everyone, free speech and the right to assemble and protest peacefully.
On behalf of the Lincoln and Union Parish communities we represent as Police Chiefs, Sheriffs and the District Attorney, we reiterate our commitment to protect our communities while upholding those freedoms of free speech and peaceful protest.
Bernice Chief of Police Eddie Horton
Choudrant Chief of Police Bobby Joe Milner
Dubach Chief of Police Don Dufour
Downsville Chief of Police Earl Roberts
Farmerville Chief of Police Bim Coulberston
Grambling Chief of Police Tommy Clark
Junction City Chief of Police Andre Benson
Marion Chief of Police Mark Dodd
Ruston Chief of Police Steve Rogers
Simsboro Chief of Police Sandy Freeman
Spearsville Chief of Police Joe Bryan
Grambling University Chief of Police Jerry Melton
Louisiana Tech University Chief of Police Randal Hermes
Lincoln Parish Sheriff Mike Stone
Lincoln Parish Sheriff-Elect Stephen Williams
Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates
Lincoln and Union Parish District Attorney John Belton
