…Researched and contributed by Judah Olanisebee.
Mother of Duante Wright Speaks Out Against Release of Ex-Cop Who Killed Her Son
Katie Wright, the mother of Duante Wright, has criticized the decision to release Kim Potter, the former police officer who shot and killed her son.
Potter will be released after serving just 16 months of her sentence for manslaughter.
Wright described Potter’s incarceration as “just a moment in time” and stated that she had cursed her family with “a forever life sentence”.
Potter was sentenced to a term far below the recommended guidelines, which are around seven years, and the 15-year limit imposed by the state of Minnesota for first-degree manslaughter.
Potter, who had been a police officer for 26 years, claimed she had accidentally shot Wright when she reached for her gun instead of her Taser during a traffic stop over expired plates in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.
Wright’s family had previously criticized the sentence handed down by Judge Regina Chu, who had wept when announcing Potter’s punishment.
Wright said that the only comfort she had was knowing Potter could never be a police officer again.
Lead prosecutor Keith Ellison, who had sought a seven-year term, stated that he accepted the decision and urged others to do the same.
Meanwhile, Potter wept during her sentencing and apologized to Duante’s family, stating, “My heart is broken for all of you.”
However, Wright told Potter that she would never forgive her for taking her son’s future and leaving her family with “so much darkness and heartache”.
Commentary:
The tragic killing of Duante Wright and the subsequent release of his shooter, Kim Potter, has sparked widespread criticism and condemnation.
Wright’s family and supporters have criticized the lenient sentence given to Potter, which they believe fails to properly acknowledge the severity of her actions.
Meanwhile, the case has also highlighted ongoing concerns around police brutality and accountability in the United States, particularly in relation to communities of color.
As such, Wright’s comments on Potter’s release are likely to resonate with many people who share her frustration and anger.