The attorney who represents the family of Breonna Taylor is speaking out following the announcement of charges for the officers involved in the shooting death of the 26-year-old EMT.
Renowned civil rights Attorney Benjamin Crump took to Twitter to share his reaction to the charges that were brought forth to former Louisville officer Brett Hankison — one of three officers involved in the fatal shooting of Taylor.
“Jefferson County Grand Jury indicts former ofc. Brett Hankison with 3 counts of Wanton Endangerment in 1st Degree for bullets that went into other apartments, but NOTHING for the murder of Breonna Taylor,” he tweeted. “This is outrageous and offensive!”
“If Brett Hankison’s behavior was wanton endangerment to people in neighboring apartments, then it should have been wanton endangerment in Breonna Taylor’s apartment too. In fact, it should have been ruled wanton murder!” Crump wrote in second tweet.
On Wednesday, Kentucky Attorney Daniel Cameron finally announced the charges against those who were involved in Taylor’s death. Hankison, who was the only officer charged, was hit with three counts of wanton endangerment in the first degree.
Wanton endangerment is a Class D felony and carries a max of one to five years, if convicted. He was also given a $15,000 bond. Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly and Detective Myles Cosgrove were not charged for their involvement, although Cameron said that Cosgrove fired the shot which ultimately killed Taylor.
Protesters are now demonstrating in the streets of Louisville. Mayor Greg Fischer announced that the city will be under a curfew for the next 72 hours, beginning on Wednesday at 9 pm local time. The curfew will last until 6:30 am.
“Our goal is ensuring space and opportunity for potential protesters to gather and express their First Amendment rights,” Fischer said. “At the same time, we are preparing for any eventuality to keep everyone safe.”
Check out Crump’s tweets below.