Obama: ‘Justice needs to be served’ in Freddie Gray case

President Obama on Friday made his first comments after six police officers were charged in the death of Freddie Gray, saying it is “absolutely vital that the truth comes out.” 

Obama declined to comment on the legal process because the officers who were charged are entitled to due process. But he said it is critical for “all the evidence” to be presented in the case. 

{mosads}“What I think the people of Baltimore want more than anything else is the truth,” he said. “That’s what people around the country expect.”

Obama added that Attorney General Loretta Lynch is in touch with Baltimore officials and offered to provide assistance in the investigation. The Department of Justice is also conducting its own probe into Gray’s death.

Gray’s death sparked violent protests in Baltimore earlier this week. After criticizing those demonstrations, Obama said he was gratified to see the emergence of “constructive, thoughtful” peaceful protests.

Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby announced Friday that the driver of a transport van carrying Gray, Officer Caesar Goodson, will face second-degree murder charges. 

The other officers involved face a number of charges, including involuntary manslaughter, assault, and false imprisonment. 

Mosby said Gray suffered a “severe and critical neck injury” while riding in the back of a Baltimore police van unsecured by a seat belt. 

Baltimore’s police union president wrote in a letter that  “none of the officers involved are responsible for the death of Mr. Gray.”