University of Minnesota scales back Minneapolis police ties after death of George Floyd
University of Minnesota president Joan Gabe will no longer contract the department for the additional policing of large events or special services — including at their Division I football games — she said in a letter sent to students, faculty and staff.
“I do not have the words to fully express my pain and anger and I know that many in our community share those feelings, but also fear for their own safety,” Gabel wrote in the letter. “This will not stand.”
The cops will no longer be tapped for events like football games, concerts or other major campus ceremonies, Gabel said. Though the department will still be relied on for “joint patrols” and certain investigations.
“We will limit our collaboration with the MPD to joint patrols and investigations that directly enhance the safety of our community or that allow us to investigate and apprehend those who put our students, faculty, and staff at risk,” she wrote.
Floyd died in police custody after four officers forcefully arrested him on Monday, with one white officer filmed on camera pinning his knee on Floyd’s neck for several minutes as Floyd shouted, “I cannot breathe. Don’t kill me!”
The four officers involved in the arrest were fired after Floyd’s death sparked outrage across the country. Protests have broken out in Minneapolis as President Trump promised an “expedited” federal investigation into the tragedy.
“I write to you to express our overwhelming sadness, and our demands for accountability and justice,” Gabel continued in her letter.
“My heart is heavy and my thoughts are with the loved ones and friends of George Floyd.”
