NAACP Statement on the Michael Dunn Verdict

BALTIMORE, M.D. – Florida jurors found Michael Dunn guilty of first-degree murder Wednesday in the 2012 shooting death of 17-year-old Jordan Davis. A previous jury found Dunn guilty of second-degree attempted murder for getting out of his car and firing 10 times at the Dodge Durango sport utility vehicle in which Jordan Davis was killed. The judge declared a mistrial on the count of first-degree murder; which applied in the death of Jordan Davis. The NAACP released the following statements in response to the verdict:

From Cornell William Brooks, President and CEO:
“Jordan Davis was killed by the doctrine of stand your ground, the hand of stereotype, and the gun of Michael Dunn. The first degree murder conviction of Michael Dunn, even in a second trial, makes clear that Jordan Davis was not a second class citizen whose life could be taken with impunity.  His life matters: to his family, to his community and to our nation of laws. The NAACP mourns the death of this young man–even as we commend the conviction of his murderer.”

From Dr. Niaz Krasavari, NAACP Director of Criminal Justice:
“Racial profiling, be it at the hands of law enforcement or ordinary citizens carrying firearms or in positions of authority, is ineffective and often leads to tragic consequences for communities of color. The NAACP continues to fight against racial profiling and stand your ground laws and advocate for real policy change.”