In a press conference today, Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul announced the firing of officer Blane Salamoni, the officer who fatally shot Alton Sterling July 5, 2016. The other officer, Howie Lake II has been suspended unpaid for three days.
According to Chief Paul, the officers learned of this ruling today, and the final decision was made by him. “My decision was not based on politics, it was not based on emotions, but I take full responsibility for the decision that I made, and it is a responsibility that I take very seriously.â€
Paul went on to say that Lake attempted to deescalate the situation according to protocol whereas Salamoni did not therefore he did not following training procedures. Keep in mind this happened within 90 seconds.
Attorneys of both Salamoni and Lake intend to appeal, however, Chief Paul says, “This is over. There is no more criminal investigation. This is the last investigation. So we need time for our community to heal.â€
Tuesday, Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry said the state would not be pursuing criminal charges against the officers. Today the video footage from the officers’ camera was released. We will not be watching.
Chief Paul also said that the department would not be asking the officers to return the money they’ve accrued while on paid leave.
-Fancy
