Elijah McClain's death attributed to ketamine administrated by paramedics
FOX NewsAPR 2022
Officer Charged in the Death of Elijah McClain Found Not Guilty
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The Spin
Narrative A
With this verdict, McClain and his family were dealt a grave injustice. While lawmakers are a critical piece for supporting equal justice in law enforcement, no law will stop the dehumanization of Black men who are at risk of being killed by a cop for simply walking on the street. The verdict in this case demonstrates we have a malfunctioning justice system.
Narrative B
Due process was carried out in this tragic case. The jury believed Woordward's testimony about his application of the carotid hold that was used. That hold is now banned under Colorado law but was not at the time an accepted use of force. This horrific incident has nonetheless translated into important police reforms.
Narrative C
The Colorado Attorney General knew it would be difficult to bring accountability to the officers responsible for this tragedy. Even so, the not-guilty verdict is not the end of the story. The Attorney General will relentlessly pursue justice for Elijah and prepare for the upcoming trial of the paramedics who had a hand in his death.