The death of Freddie Gray was officially ruled as a homicide by Baltimore’s attorney, Marilyn Mosby. All six officers involved in the case will face criminal charges. They were quickly taken into custody following the announcement by the attorney’s prosecutor.
Even though the officers had reasonable suspicion to stop and question Gray, they did not have probable cause to arrest him. The officers made an illegal arrest.
Footage that caught the arrest on tape showed the cops using profound force on Gray while leading him to the van. But the investigation revealed Gray was not injured until the ride started.
While in the van, Gray’s head struck a bolt that was sticking out of the wall. He hit the bolt so hard it broke his neck, causing the massive spinal injury. A law enforcement official reported that his injuries were like that of a car accident victim. The investigation also revealed the van made a stop at an undisclosed and unreported location before arriving at the jail.
Lt. Brian Rice, the officer who first made contact with Gray, was hospitalized in April 2012 concerning his mental health. He reportedly stated that he “could not continue to go on like this” and threatened to commit an act which has not been made public.
Each officer is facing specific charges depending on their involvement in the case. Here’s a breakdown of the charges that have been released:
Officer Caesar R. Goodson Jr.
- Second-degree depraved-heart murder 30 years
- Involuntary manslaughter 10 years
- Second-degree assault 10 years
- Manslaughter by vehicle (gross negligence) 10 years
- Manslaughter by vehicle (criminal negligence) 3 years
- Misconduct in office
Officer William G. Porter
- Involuntary manslaughter 10 years
- Second-degree assault 10 years
- Misconduct in office
Lt. Brian W. Rice
- Involuntary manslaughter 10 years
- Two counts of second-degree assault Each has a maximum penalty of 10 years
- Two counts of misconduct in office
- False imprisonment
Officer Edward M. Nero
- Two counts of second-degree assault Each has a maximum penalty of 10 years
- Two counts of misconduct in office
- False imprisonment
Officer Garrett E. Miller
- Two counts of second-degree assault Each has a maximum penalty of 10 years
- Two counts of misconduct in office
- False imprisonment
Sgt. Alicia D. White
- Involuntary manslaughter 10 years
- Second-degree assault 10 years
- Misconduct in office