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The conclusion of another trial in the Freddie Gray case brings good news for Baltimore police officer Caesar Goodson Jr., and bad news for everyone looking for justice.
Goodson, 48, was driving the van in which Gray suffered fatal spinal cord injuries in April 2015. On Tuesday he was found not guilty of all 21 administrative charges that were filed against him.
As the Baltimore Sun notes, this verdict not only absolves Goodson of any wrongdoing in Gray’s death but also allows him to keep his job with the Baltimore Police Department.
Goodson was charged with neglecting his duty in the following:
- Failing to ensure Gray’s safety by not securing a handcuffed and shackled Gray in a seat belt and;
- Not calling a medic for Gray after he requested one
He was also charged with making false statements to investigators and second degree murder.
If he had been found guilty of just one of the charges against him, there is a good possibility that he would have faced termination from the department.
So, how does this happen? His trial was presided over by three law-enforcement officials. And no, we’re not kidding.
Together they made the decision to clear him of all charges. The decision was unanimous.
According to theroot.com the panel’s decision is considered final, and it cannot be challenged by the city or the Police Department.
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