Rough Justice

Another highly publicized trial in Minnesota involving the death of a black man by police has ended. Kim Potter was a 26-year veteran for the Brooklyn Center Police Department. This past Thursday, she was found guilty of both first-degree and second-degree manslaughter in the April 11th shooting death of 20-year-old Daunte Wright. Potter’s sentencing is on February 18th. She could face up to 15 years in prison.

Officer Potter made a tragic mistake by confusing her handgun with a taser during a traffic stop. However, I found it disturbing to hear Black Lives Matter activists cry “justice for Daunte.” The 20-year-old had an outstanding warrant plus a criminal record. He got shot by Potter while resisting arrest and then committed another crime: fleeing the police in a motor vehicle. That alone is a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of $5,000.


I was also disturbed by Hennepin County Judge Regina Chu praising the jurors as “heroes” for their verdict. The real heroes are our law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect us (that includes courtroom bailiffs). I suspect the jury feared repercussions from rioters if Potter was acquitted. They also could have been pressured to decide before the Christmas holiday. 


I think Potter’s potential sentence is too harsh. People in other professions face less severe consequences for accidentally killing someone. Doctors who misdiagnose patients usually don’t go to prison. They are more likely to be sued in a civil case. Actor Alec Baldwin has a pending lawsuit (but no criminal charges) for shooting and killing someone on a movie set two months ago. If police face increasing obstacles in upholding the law, fewer officers will stay on the job to protect the public. Potter’s verdict could inspire future criminals to flee traffic stops and attempted arrests.


Daunte Wright would probably be alive today had he obeyed the police. Therefore, I pray an appeal will result in an overturned or a reduced sentence for Kim Potter. She already lost a law enforcement career she enjoyed and then had to move due to her address shared on social media. Except for this one blunder, Potter did her job with excellence. She has repeatedly shown remorse and professes to be a devoted Catholic. I hope Potter comes to know the Lord (if she isn’t already saved).


Sadly, both of Daunte Wright’s parents declared they will never forgive Kim Potter for the death of their son. While I sympathize with their grief, their bitterness is unwarranted. All of us deserve eternal punishment for violating God’s laws. Fortunately, we have an Advocate in heaven who will declare us “not guilty” if we receive His gift of salvation…and forgive others.


“Many seek the ruler’s favor, but justice for man comes from the Lord. - Proverbs 29:26

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