Maries County Sheriff Chris Heitman said he proudly will add his name to the list with his brothers and sisters in blue. “I do not support the actions of this officer or the other officers standing by not protecting the rights of this citizen!” The sheriff was referring to the man who was a fatality during an encounter with law enforcement officers in Minneapolis that has resulted in rioting in that community and state.

“I pray that they are dealt with accordingly, by that I mean criminally. They deserve to be held accountable for their actions, and inactions,” he stated on a Facebook post on the sheriff’s office page.

“Being a law enforcement officer, I take the utmost pride in my job. If I can help you versus taking you to jail, I will. However, I will not tolerate the destruction of a reputation that good law enforcement officers have spent years building. This incident that occurred in Minneapolis does not define the brave men and women, who wear the badge with pride, and that do this job with dignity.”

He asked that people not judge all of those who work in law enforcement for the actions of the Minnesota police officer. “Most law enforcement officers truly care for people and take pride in serving others. I am so proud to have some of the finest men and women in law enforcement working for me.”

Sheriff Heitman asked citizens to join with him in praying for the family of the deceased citizen, Mr. Floyd.

“He did not deserve to die in such a way, especially at the hands of someone who had taken an oath to protect and preserve the peace.”