Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, the city's chief of police for nearly 20 years before becoming mayor, issued this statement Saturday in response to Friday's murder arrest of a former Minneapolis, Minnesota police officer and the consequent civil unrest that has gripped that city and the nation.

There is no legal or moral justification for the actions taken by Minneapolis Police Officers that claimed Mr. Floyd's life. Placing a knee on someone's neck is never an appropriate use of force. Police Officers are there to protect and serve the community – including people in custody. Any officer who abuses their power or who watches silently and allows it to happen is not fit to wear the badge of honor. They must be held accountable.

My heart breaks for Mr. Floyd's family and friends. I grieve with the Minneapolis community over this senseless tragedy that could and should have been avoided. Those protesting in Minneapolis and around the country are human beings who are rightfully hurt, outraged, and sickened by what happened to Mr. Floyd.

As a Police Department and City, we know we are not perfect, but we are proud of the work that we in Norwalk have done and continue to do to help build trust and strengthen relationships across different communities. The Norwalk Police Department and my office will continue to protect and serve the residents of Norwalk.