As cheers rang out in Minnesota, after former Minneapolis police Derek Chauvin was found guilty of murder and manslaughter in the death of George Floyd, back here in the city the corner of Sean Bell Way in Jamaica, Queens is quiet.
What You Need To Know
- Sean Bell's parents Valerie and William watched Derek Chauvin's guilty verdict come in at their St. Alban's home
- Sean Bell was killed by undercover detectives in 2006. There was a state trial for three of the five detectives involved. A judge found them not guilty.
- Bell's parents say they hope this verdict in Minneapolis will bring lasting police reform
The street is named after Sean Bell, a 23-year-old man who was shot and killed in a hail of 50 bullets — by NYPD officers back in 2006.
“It brings back memories,” said Valerie Bell, Sean’s mother.
A few miles away— Sean’s parents quietly watched the verdict come in at their St. Albans home.
They say they never thought this day and this verdict would come.
“Even though you have seen it — cause we have seen many videos that you see the actual death of the young man or whatever and they get away with it. I feared they might do the same. I’m going to be honest with you, I really didn’t think they were going to come out with all three verdicts for guilty,” said William Bell, Sean’s father.
Bell was celebrating his bachelor party at a Queens club-- when police say they thought he had a gun.
Undercover detective said when they approached him -- Bell tried to ram them with his car. 50 shots were fired — killing Bell and injuring two of his friends.
No gun was found. There was a state trial for three of the five detectives involved. A judge found them not guilty.
While Bell’s death was nearly 15 years ago, his parents say Floyd's death reopened old wounds.
“I relive my son’s death when I see that,” said William.
“It just hurts. I just feel so disgusted sometimes. Like when is it going to end,” said Valerie.
The Bells were hopeful their son’s death would be a catalyst for change in this country.
“If I kill somebody I’m going to jail the same night. That needs to happen to the police officers also. They should be treated just like we are treated. That’s a job you choose. I know you fear for your life, but you chose that job to help and serve the community,” said Valerie.
Now, they hope this verdict in Minneapolis will bring police reform.