Police Officer Kim Potter Sentenced To 16 Months For The Killing Of Daunte Wright
Former Minnesota police officer was sentenced today February 17, 2022 for the killing of Daunte Wright, a 20 year old black man back in April 2021. The incident took place during a traffic stop where Wright was pulled over for an illegal air freshener and expired tags. After running his name is was discovered that Wright had a warrant and he refused to cooperate while being placed under arrest. While officers were trying to place him in handcuffs he jumped back into his car. Video evidence shows Potter yelling that she was going to tase him but she ponting her handgun. As Wright tried to drive away officer Potter fired a single bullet that hit him in the chest, he ended up crashing just a few feet away. News of Daunte’s death resulted in heated protests around the city and both Potter and Police Chief Timothy Gannon both resigned two days later.
In December of 2021 a jury found office Potter guilty of first and second degree manslaughter but was allowed to remain free until she was convicted in December. Prosecutors believed that she would face at least seven years in prison but were preparing to ask for more time. During the trial prosecutors argued that Potter’s behavior during the traffic stop was completely negligent and reckless. Meanwhile the defense argued that Wright was responsible for his own death for trying to escape while being arrested. They feel she had every right to use deadly force.
Even more surprising than her sentence was the reaction of Judge Regina Chu while handing down the sentence. Chu discussed how it was one of the saddest cases she ever presided over. She believes that Potter never meant to hurt anyone or take their life and that police officers who risk their lives every day are under extreme pressure and have to make quick decisions.
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