News

Boston, other cities preparing for reactions to looming Chauvin verdict

BOSTON — Security remains a top priority as cities prepare for possible reactions to the Derek Chauvin trial verdict. Chauvin, a former Minneapolis Police officer, is charged in the May 2020 killing of 46-year-old George Floyd.

“If he’s found not guilty, I believe we will see protests and similar disturbances to last year,” said Daniel Linskey, former superintendent-in-chief of the Boston Police Department and Boston 25 News’ security analyst.

Related: Derek Chauvin trial: Closing arguments begin

Linskey explained that city police are working with regional partners and have rapid response teams ready to act in case violence breaks out like it did last May.

“We need to have the National Guard ready and standing by, ready to respond if the verdict gets back and there are people concerned with the verdict,” he said. “Police leaders should be reaching out to their community leaders right now and having conversations about what they can do ahead of time.”

Demonstrations against police brutality have been ongoing for nearly a year, with several happening as recently as this past weekend.

>>>MORE: Protestors march through Boston to demand justice for Daunte Wright

“I know BPD has got everyone in uniform. Other agencies are doing the same thing where they’re basically going to be on standby until the verdict comes back. There’s even some concern that even a verdict of guilt, if it’s not seen as going intense enough, could cause issues and concerns and protests if people feel that charges were not appropriately determined by the jury,” Linskey said.

On Monday afternoon, Boston Police released the following statement:

“The Boston Police Department asks that if public demonstrations occur as a result of the verdict, that they are done with respect to our neighbors and businesses, responsibly and peacefully.”

According to the mayor’s office, Boston Mayor Kim Janey will likely be addressing the trial on Tuesday during a city press conference.

“It’s been extremely emotional. It’s been extremely emotional for our community and for our country,” Linskey said.