Aurora Police Chief Art Acevedo released a statement moments after the jury found Randy Roedema guilty of criminally negligent homicide and assault, while Jason Rosenblatt was found not guilty of manslaughter and assault.
The death of the unarmed young Black man four years ago received widespread publicity inside and outside of Colorado and led to large-scale protests and reforms in Aurora’s police department.
Around 4:20 p.m. on Thursday, the verdict was reached, and within half an hour, the judge proceeded to read the verdicts.
RELATED: Officer Randy Roedema guilty, former officer Jason Rosenblatt not guilty
Acevedo expressed gratitude to the jury members for the verdict in a statement.
“I know many have been waiting a long time for the involved parties to have their day in court. As a nation, we must be committed to the rule of law. As such, we hold the American judicial process in high regard. We respect the verdict handed down by the jury, and thank the members of the jury for their thoughtful deliberation and service. Due to the additional pending trials, the Aurora Police Department is precluded from further comment at this time.”
After the verdict, the Aurora Fire Department released a statement as well.
“Until all of the trials related to the death of Elijah McClain are ruled, Aurore Fire Rescue owes it to all of the defendants to withhold our comments about individual case outcomes to ensure that we do not compromise their right to a fair trial. Additionally, the court has precluded the city and our department from commenting on the facts and circumstances of the incident while these proceedings are pending. We respect the rule of law and the outcomes of the cases.
“What we will share at this time is our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone impacted by this event. The stress they have suffered over the past four years as they seek healing and closure is unimaginable. We also want Aurora residents to know that we remain focused on our responsibilities to provide exceptional service in protecting the community, loved ones and property during emergency situations.”
McClain, a 23-year-old individual, tragically lost their life following a report received by first responders regarding a suspicious person roaming the street. Responders arrived at the intersection of Colfax Avenue and Billings Street on August 24, 2019, where they discovered McClain wearing a mask and holding groceries.
Rosenblatt, Roedema, and an additional officer were all charged by a grand jury for forcefully restraining McClain during a violent altercation, which was documented on a police body camera recording.
After the jury delivered their verdict, CBS News Colorado managed to speak briefly with McClain’s mother at the courthouse. She expressed her opinion, stating, “This outcome is a reflection of the division in the United States of America.”
Interim City Manager Jason Batchelor responded to the verdict by releasing a statement.
“I know there are deep feelings about Elijah McClain and that today’s verdict will elicit a range of emotions across the community. Irrespective of the outcome of the trial and the remaining two trials, Mr. McClain’s death was tragic and had a profound impact on all of us. I have stood alongside city employees and community members over the last four years in championing meaningful, measured public safety changes while simultaneously supporting our dedicated police officers and firefighters who work tirelessly to keep our community safe. None of that work will change. We will not waver in our commitment to progress. I encourage you to regularly inform yourself on our progress webpage.
Mr. McClain’s death has an enduring impact on our community. I extend my sincerest sympathies to Elijah McClain’s family and friends for the continued heartache of his loss. I join the city’s executive management team and APD in monitoring public reaction to today’s verdict. We will continue to work together, acknowledging the loss and impacts of this tragedy, to drive the progress we seek.”
Rosenblatt is no longer employed by the Aurora Police Department, while Roedema and the third responding officer, Nathan Woodyard, have been temporarily suspended from duty without receiving any pay.
The sentencing date for Roedema has been set for Jan. 5 at 1:30 p.m. at Adams County Court.
