Members of the District Attorneys Association of the State of New York place “faith in laws” and “trust in police” following protests that have occurred in Buffalo and across the nation after the death of an unarmed George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.

“The death of George Floyd has understandably been devastating to not only his family, but his community in Minneapolis and our entire country. We place our faith in our laws and trust the police to discharge enforcement equally and appreciate their commitment, hard work and dedication to our citizenry, said a joint statement from association President and Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler as well as President-Elect and Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley.

“The video capturing the last moments of Mr. Floyd’s life is a painful reminder that we have so much more work to do to ensure equal protection and treatment under the law. This nightmare should have never happened. The tragic events that transpired are not a reflection on all the hard working men and women in uniform who serve and protect us every day. Now, the justice system is tasked with investigating the individuals who are responsible for this.

“We trust that the investigation will be thorough and that justice will be served.The anguish that we are all feeling as a result of Mr. Floyd’s death is a reality that we must all deal with. We are a nation that is proud of our diverse communities and going forward we must all be dedicated to ameliorating racial tensions. Now more than ever while living in the time of our country’s worst modern health pandemic and devastating economic uncertainty, we need to come together, embrace and understand our differences.

“We wish our sincerest condolences and a hope for some peace to Mr. Floyd’s family, friends and community. The voices of those who are peacefully protesting are a harsh reminder that we have so much more to do to live up to our ideals of justice for all.”

Chautauqua County District Attorney Patrick Swanson is a member of the association’s board of directors.