Mayor Soglin Statement on District Attorney Ozanne Decision
posted
May 13, 2015
District Attorney Ozanne reviewed the facts and the law and reached a decision not to indict Madison Police Officer Matt Kenny in the death of Tony Robinson.
This is an outcome that many did not want. It is an outcome that many in our community support. Regardless of our views, we all share a common bond of sadness over Tony’s death, and we share hope for the future of all Madisonians - knowing that we have the will and the capability to make this the best city for all.
There will be public protests.
We call on those who march and express themselves to continue to exercise their rights peacefully. Likewise, dedicated Madison police officers have handled the marches and demonstrations since Tony Robinson’s death with the utmost professionalism and care. We know that will continue.
As a reminder, if one chooses to engage in civil disobedience and violates the law, there must be an acceptance of arrest. That means arrested individuals are not to resist arrest, and just as importantly, no one is to interfere with another person’s arrest.
The city of Madison will continue to provide the greatest latitude in allowing for political expression, but illegal acts which jeopardize public safety such as impeding ambulances, will not be tolerated.
District Attorney Ozanne must be recognized for his devotion to our community and to the legal profession he serves and we must honor that dedication to truth and justice; otherwise, we will not be up to the challenge, to understand, based on factual information, where change is needed and where resources should be directed to prevent another tragedy.
Our horizon must be broader than law enforcement. We owe it to the memory of Tony Robinson, to his family, and to our community to make changes that make Madison a just and equitable city. We must rebuild trust where it has been lost; increase opportunities for every resident of Madison; and invest in initiatives that promote equity and social justice.
The DA’s decision closes one chapter in this tragedy but it will not be the last word.
The following alders added their names to this statement as of 11 AM.
- Council President, Alder Denise DeMarb, District 16
- Council President Pro Tem, Alder Maurice Cheeks, District 10
- Alder David Ahrens, District 15
- Alder Samba Baldeh, District 17
- Alder Mark Clear, District 19
- Alder Matt Phair, District 20
- Alder Chris Schmidt, District 11
- Alder Paul Skidmore, District 9
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