From the VA House Democratic Caucus, regarding this horrible story:
Virginia House Democratic Caucus Statement on Death of Irvo Otieno
RICHMOND, VA – Today, in the wake of the disturbing death of Irvo Otieno, the Virginia House Democratic Caucus released the below statement:
Delegate Delores McQuinn, who represents Henrico: “This is a devastating situation, and as information continues to come forward, I am praying for the family of Mr. Irvo Otieno. As a lifelong Henrico resident, it breaks my heart that something like this could happen in our community. While I encourage the public to continue to withhold judgment until we have all of the details, it is clear that we have to come together to address the mental health crisis in the Commonwealth. We need more resources to protect our most vulnerable. As the work continues, let us come together to support Mr. Irvo Otieno’s family.”
Leader Don Scott: “As we continue to learn the details of what led to the death of Irvo Otieno, one thing is clear: no person here in Virginia should be met with anything but compassion and support in the midst of a mental health crisis. A system in which a young man in need of help leads to the death at the hands of those sworn to protect him is a system that is deeply broken. Irvo Otieno’s story is all too familiar for Black Americans, and we will continue to fight to provide all Virginians access to resources, the chance to be seen, and the feeling of safety around law enforcement.”
Chair Charniele Herring: “Irvo had a bright future. He had hopes, he had dreams, and he would be alive today if our system had not failed him. No parent should have to endure the pain that Irvo’s mother has, certainly not at the hands of the people sworn to protect her and her son. We must not only pray for his family, but continue working to change the system that has allowed this tragedy to take place.”
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