Kidd: “To say I was upset when I saw the video that captured the death of George Floyd is an understatement. His death was unnecessary, preventable, and not least to say, criminal. I am revulsed by the senseless acts of the involved Minneapolis police officers.
Because of this action, many citizens of our country have expressed their constitutional right to peacefully protest this action. Unfortunately, others have taken advantage of the occasion to participate in additional criminal activity that further discredits the life of Mr. Floyd and create discord with law enforcement departments across the country.
We share the same outrage and disgust at what happened to Mr. Floyd; however, we must find ways to come together and create change that matters, because George Floyd’s life matters. Let his death not be in vain but be a catalyst for reform which creates equality and uniformity. My department stands with those who peacefully protest the inexcusable and mindless acts that led to the death of George Floyd. We also know that this incident tarnishes the profession that we chose. As officers, we take an oath to preserve the dignity and rights of all individuals. Regrettably, George Floyd did not receive that liberty, but I pray the carnage and wreckage from the incidents which have followed will not overshadow his untimely and unfortunate death.
I think it is clear that many people do not trust the police and that is an issue that we are going to have to work on and work through for a long time, but this can be accomplished together without the distraction of looting, vandalism, and destruction. Officers do have a duty to protect citizens and property alike and it is our charge to do so.
I felt compelled to write this statement. To let you, the citizens, know that the Buda Police Department will respect all, trustfully protect and serve this community and we will always strive to do what is right or admit when we have failed and aim to do better. This department takes pride in calling Buda its home, committed to you and your safety, and for always standing up for what is right.”
Williams: “As City Manager, any action that puts the members of the City of Buda Police Department and City of Buda citizens in harms way is of deep concern to me. This has never been more evident as in the irresponsible actions of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin and other Minneapolis officers. They have harmed the reputation of all law enforcement officers, putting them along with the entire country in danger with inconsiderate, selfish, and reckless behavior.
The senseless and insensitive killing of George Floyd has indeed been one of the more blatant criminal acts ever committed by one who is charged with protecting the life and safety of the populaces of our nation. Mr. Floyd did nothing to deserve a death sentence and should have gotten proper due process in his interaction with the law. Unfortunately, such occurrences have become all too common in the lives of Black Americans during their interactions with law enforcement. Such tragic events have served to erase the level of trust between the two groups that desperately needs healing if our country is to ever reach its full potential.
In expression of displeasure for the actions of the Minneapolis officers many citizens of the United States have enacted their constitutional right to peacefully protest or engage in civil disobedience. However, like there are bad cops there are chameleons disguised as protesters who have taken advantage of the situation to partake in the criminal activity of looting and larceny. This criminal commotion too is wrong and shall not be tolerated and indeed enforced by law.
We are fortunate in Buda to have officers of high moral standards, Chief Bo Kidd exemplifies respect for all citizens, leads a department that trustfully protects the community and strives to do that which is right. Our officers have always displayed professionalism, respected all members of the community, and exercised extreme care, when warranted, in the use of force in all situations. In my accountability role as city manager of Buda I have learned to expect the routine deliverance of high standards by the department.
I value each officer of our department and revel in their positive interactions with all members of our community. The Mayor, City Council, Chief Kidd, and I are remorseful and sympathize with the family of George Floyd for this tragedy. We are doing our part in Buda to make it right.
We must use this event to make permanent positive changes in worldview, culture, and laws/policies of the country to ensure constructive interactions for people of color and law enforcement. We can do better. We must do better.
We look forward to continued positive interactions with all the community, including Black Americans with the Buda Police Department. As always in ending such statements I would like to say, God Bless the city of Buda, state of Texas and the United States of America.
There is a reason we live in one of the top 50 cities in America. Everyone should be so lucky.”
