Statements Released After Tamir Rice Decision

"Tamir Rice’s death was a heartbreaking tragedy and I understand how this decision will leave many people asking themselves if justice was served. We all lose, however, if we give in to anger and frustration and let it divide us. We have made progress to improve the way communities and police work together in our state, and we’re beginning to see a path to positive change so everyone shares in the safety and success they deserve. When we are strong enough together to turn frustration into progress we take another step up the higher path."

"The Grand Jury has decided not to indict. We understand that many in our community did not expect this result. 

I have instructed the Cuyahoga County Sheriff to work with other local law enforcement officers to protect the rights of our citizens to peaceful protest. 

I pray that our citizens will follow the words and non-violent actions of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: 'We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence.'"

"We will always have the utmost respect for the Criminal Justice system, we are pleased in the Grand Jury’s thoughtful decision based on the facts of this tragic case.

From the onset, our hearts, thoughts and prayers have gone out to the Rice family as well as our involved officers and their families. There is NO cause for celebration and there will be none.

While there is absolutely no upside to this issue, there are lessons that should and will be learned by all.

We respect and appreciate the Grand Jury’s ability to apply the law to the facts of this case without regard to emotion or the self-serving agendas of uninvolved others."

"The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, the United States Attorney's Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation have been monitoring the investigation that has been conducted regarding the death of Tamir Rice on Nov. 22, 2014. We will continue our independent review of this matter, assess all available materials and determine what actions are appropriate, given the strict burdens and requirements imposed by applicable federal civil rights laws.

Additionally, the Department of Justice continues in its efforts to pursue ongoing and comprehensive reform pursuant to the consent decree in the federal, civil pattern and practice case filed before Chief Judge Solomon Oliver in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio."