Center for Policing Equity on the Sentencing of former Minnesota Police Officer Kim Potter

February 19 2022

Today, the Center for Policing Equity released the following statement on the sentencing of former Minnesota Police Officer Kim Potter for killing Daunte Wright:

In April 2021, Minnesota Police Officer Kim Potter drew her gun when she said she meant to draw her taser and fatally shot Daunte Wright during a traffic stop in Brooklyn Center. Two months ago, Potter was convicted of first- and second-degree manslaughter.On 2/18/22, Hennepin County Judge Regina Chu sentenced Potter to 16 months in prison and eight months of supervised release.

Potter’s actions that fateful day in April led to the unnecessary death of a beloved father, friend, and son. Our hearts are with Daunte Wright’s family who expressed immense hurt over the irreplaceable loss of Daunte. Their pain, and that of their community, has now been compounded by a judge who ignored Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison's recommended sentence of 86 months. 

Charging Potter in December of 2021 was an important step in holding police officers accountable, but this truncated sentencing feels like a step back for many who were hoping the legal system would deliver full justice. Redesigning public safety requires accountability, transparency, and the recognition that marginalized communities must be protected. We are committed to protecting our most vulnerable communities so that they will not also have to experience the trauma Daunte’s family, loved ones, and community are feeling.

###

About Center for Policing Equity: As a research and action organization, Center for Policing Equity (CPE) produces analyses identifying and reducing the causes of racial disparities in law enforcement. Using evidence-based approaches to social justice, we use data to create levers for social, cultural and policy change. Center for Policing Equity also holds a 501(c)3 status.