In a dramatic announcement this morning, six Baltimore police officers were charged in the death of 25 year-old Freddie Gray last month. The most serious of the charges -- second degree murder -- was filed against Officer Caesar Goodson, Jr. who drove the police van. The others, including a police lieutenant and a sergeant, are facing charges ranging from involuntary manslaughter and second degree assault to misconduct in office.
State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby said that the charges were filed after the coroner's office officially ruled Gray's death a homicide. The local Fraternal Order of Police chapter immediately called for an independent special prosecutor, which Mosby quickly -- and correctly -- rebuffed.
Streets in West Baltimore have been calm the last three nights, after local community leaders called for restraint and calm. After Attorney Mosby's announcement of the charges, residents of the neighborhood that saw violence and looting last Monday night were expressing relief and satisfaction that charges against the police were lodged.
BONUS: If anyone thinks Mosby has an anti-cop bias, they should take it up with her parents, a grandparent, aunts and uncles, all of whom are cops.
(photo: ABC News. State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby announcing charges against police)
