Former Police Officer Kim Potter Set to be Released from Prison
Former police officer Kim Potter, who was convicted of manslaughter after mistaking her handgun for a Taser and shooting black motorist Daunte Wright in suburban Minneapolis in 2021, is set to be released from prison today.
Potter had been sentenced to two years in prison, with a requirement to serve 16 months and spend the rest of her sentence on probation.
The case had garnered widespread attention due to its similarity to other high-profile police shootings, including the death of George Floyd.
Minnesota Department of Corrections Monitors Potter’s Release
According to a spokesman for the Minnesota Department of Corrections, criminal investigative analysts are closely monitoring Potter’s release to ensure her safety.
Potter, a 26-year police veteran, was reportedly much thinner in a new photo released by the Department of Corrections.
The Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred in April 2021 when Brooklyn officers pulled over Daunte Wright for having expired license tags and an air freshener hanging from his rear-view mirror.
He was found to have a warrant for the possession of weapons, prompting a struggle with police.
Potter was heard on video yelling ‘taser’ several times before firing her pistol as Wright tried to drive away from the scene.
Wright’s mother, Katie Wright, referred to the shooting as her son’s murder.
Defence Arguments and Potter’s Apology
Potter’s defence lawyers argued at the sentencing hearing that she deserved leniency because Wright was trying to drive away, and Potter had the right to defend herself.
However, at the time of her sentencing, Potter apologised to Wright’s family, saying that her heart was broken and devastated for them.
The case has reignited the debate over police use of force, particularly when it comes to black Americans.
Potter’s release will likely generate further discussion on this issue.