A Michigan sheriff takes off his helmet and throws his stick to the side to join the protester George Floyd in a moment of solidarity, video shows.
“We wanted to be with you for real, so I took off my helmet and put down my stick,” said Sheriff Genesee County, Christopher Swanson, Saturday at a demonstration in Flint Township, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Swanson said he matched riot clothing when protesters approached to prepare for any conflict, but as the demonstration continued he saw a police officer crashing into someone who participated in the march, the outlet reported.
He said that it later occurred to him that there might be an opportunity for law enforcement to come along with the demonstrators – and he removed riot gear and walked to one of the parade leaders.
“And I said, ‘What else should I do?’ And he said, ‘Walk with us,’ “Swanson told the outlet.” The best moment of my police career was when I said, ‘Let’s go.’ And we walked more than a mile to where we started and I could feel instant peace on both sides. “
Recording has went viral on Facebook Swanson condemned former Minneapolis police Derek Chauvin, who was accused of killing Floyd by pinning his knee to his neck for several minutes.
“The only reason we are here is to make sure you get a vote. That’s all,” Swanson said. “Don’t think for a moment that he represents who these police are from all regions and across the country.”
He continued, “These policemen love you … so you tell us what we need to do.”
