Edward Nero
Baltimore, MD – Officer Edward Nero has been acquitted on all charges in connection with the death of Freddie Gray. Gray was originally placed under arrest April 12, 2015 for possession of an illegal switchblade.
While in police custody, Gray sustained spinal cord injuries and was subsequently transported to a medical center, where he died on April 19, 2015.
Gray’s death set off a national firestorm regarding the police treatment of African Americans and resulted in six officers, including Nero, being prosecuted.
The aftermath of the incident resulted in impassioned protests from frustrated Baltimore citizens that caused city officials to issue a week-long curfew and even postpone a Baltimore Orioles game.
Chants of “no justice, no peace, jail to the police” were heard after the verdict was announced Monday morning.
Nero faced charges of assault, misconduct in office and reckless endangerment.
Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake released a statement following the court’s decision:
“This is our American system of justice and police officers must be afforded the same justice system as every other citizen in this city, state and country.”
Contact Corey Chaconas at corey.c@thebaynet.com