The nation watched as a Baltimore police officer was acquitted from all charges today (May 23) regarding the death of Freddie Gray.
The New York Times reports Edward M. Nero faced charges for second-degree assault, misconduct and reckless endangerment after Gray was killed in April. Gray was arrested and suffered a spinal injury in the police van. Reports say the officers did not follow protocol, including buckling Gray into the vehicle with a seatbelt. The 25-year-old died a week later from his injuries.
#FreddieGray became a trending topic after the announcement that Nero was released from the charges, with many expressing outrage that there has yet to be someone held accountable for Gray’s death.
“They still killing us walking free! #DISRESPECT,” Meek Mill writes on Instagram.
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Six officers have faced charges for their reported roles in Gray’s death, according to The Baltimore Sun. The trial for the first officer ended in a hung jury and mistrial in December.
“4 more officers to go. Let’s be attentive and pray for a just ending. #FreddieGray,” King Mez writes on Twitter.
“No charges ?? …But of course smh deepest prayers to the#FreddieGray family,” SZA writes with a praying hands emoji.
The next officer to face trial is Caesar Goodson Jr., the reported driver of the police van. He is facing multiple charges including second-degree murder. The trial is expected to begin next month.
