Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated, “The message from these peaceful protestors came across loud and clear to honor George Floyd and his legacy of change. We made sure to protect our peaceful protestors, our residents, businesses and police officers from any outside negative individuals whose main purpose is to create mayhem and destruction. Working together we made sure that no one was harmed or hurt and no property was damaged. I’m appreciative of the professionalism shown by the Springfield Police Department, our great relationship with Major Mike Habel and the Massachusetts State Police, General Gary Keefe and the Massachusetts National Guard and as always Sheriff Nick Cocchi and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department. Once again, I commend the peaceful protestors and believe that peaceful movements like these can help lead to justice and reform across the nation for the atrocious and tragic death of George Floyd.”
“I’m grateful that this protest ended peacefully and I’m thankful for the resources provided by the Governor, including the Mass State Police and National Guard as well as the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department. I want to commend our Springfield Police Officers who acted professionally throughout the entire seven-hour protest. Myself, Deputy Chief Rupert Daniel and Mayor Sarno took part in the rally at Central High School from the PVTA to help ensure their safety. I just want to reiterate that police officers are as frustrated as you are when incidents like this happen across the country. We heard your message, anger and frustration, but commend you on keeping this protest peaceful,” said Springfield Police Commissioner Cheryl Clapprood.