WILMINGTON- On Thursday, the Delaware Department of Justice released body-worn camera footage related to the fatal officer-involved shooting of 19-year-old Kadir Skinner of Wilmington, DE. In response to the release of this footage, Delaware Legislative Black Caucus Chair Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha and Vice Chair Rep. Franklin Cooke issued the following statement:
“The release of the body-worn camera footage has prompted difficult conversations and heavy emotions throughout our community. As our community continues to process this tragedy, we want to extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Kadir Skinner. We also recognize that this is not the first time our community has had to bear the weight of a loss like this. Every time an incident like this occurs, families and communities are forced to relive these painful moments on television, social media, and in our neighborhoods, which reopens wounds long before healing can begin.
“The Delaware Legislative Black Caucus stands for ensuring every investigation is conducted transparently and thoroughly. As such, we expect the Delaware Department of Justice, including the Division of Civil Rights & Public Trust Unit, along with the City of Wilmington and the Wilmington Police Department, to continue diligently carrying out their respective roles in this investigation.
“Our Caucus has long advocated for policies that strengthen transparency and improve accountability within our justice system. While no one piece of legislation or even multiple can undo the pain of tragedies like this, those efforts help ensure that investigations are conducted with the discernment and fairness our communities deserve.
“Beyond our legislative roles, as Wilmington natives, we are closely monitoring this situation and expect this process to move forward without unnecessary delay while remaining mindful of the Skinner family. Our thoughts remain with the family and all those grieving this loss.”
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