Reaction from officials, organizations on sentencing of Aaron Dean: ‘Are we supposed to celebrate…’

FORT WORTH, Texas — The trial of former Fort Worth officer Aaron Dean was completed on Tuesday afternoon after a jury determined his punishment.

Last week, the jury found Dean guilty of manslaughter in the October 2019 death of Atatiana Jefferson. And on Tuesday, that same jury sentenced Dean to 11 years, 10 months and 12 days in prison.

Dean’s fate has been long-awaited for just over three years after numerous delays in his trial. Prosecutors had sought a murder conviction, but the jury decided on the lesser charge of manslaughter.

Fort Worth city councilmember Chris Nettles, who has been outspoken about his thoughts on the deadly shooting, was one of the first to release a statement on Dean’s sentencing.

Nettles issued a strong, emotional statement about his disappointment in the outcome of the trial.

“While I am pleased with today’s sentencing, and find some comfort knowing a murderer will spend time in prison, I am disappointed… This verdict is the bare minimum. Since when are we “lucky” to sentence a proven murder to prison? Are we supposed to celebrate the fact that the justice system actually did its job? Black people are tired of being told to “be grateful” and “look at the bright side” when getting handed the crumbs of society.

Is it not enough to have video footage of the murder? Is it not enough to interrogate and try to discredit an 11-year-old boy? Is it not enough to have a Black woman shot to death lying on the floor of her own home? Why is it never enough?

Today we can take a deep breath. But we must hold it in. This will not be the last time an innocent Black person is murdered by a police officer, so we must continue to stay vigilant and on defense. I will not rest until my Black community can finally feel safe in their own homes without fear of being shot to death.”

Other officials and organizations gave their statements about the trial.

“This verdict and sentence won’t bring Atatiana Jefferson back. This trial was difficult for all involved, including our community. My sympathies remain with Atatiana’s family and friends and I pray they find peace.

This trial wasn’t about politics and it wasn’t about race. If someone breaks the law, they have to be held accountable. The jury agreed. We thank the jury members for making sure justice was served.”

“The actions of Aaron Dean have greatly affected the lives of the Jefferson family and the entire Fort Worth Community.  The emotional impact will be felt for years to come. His felony actions have done much damage to the psyche of our kids.  His actions continue to perpetuate an uneasiness about the level of safety in our own homes. 

The fact that the decision on sentencing is at the higher end of the spectrum of punishment, is proof that we are making progress toward judicial equity.  The Fort Worth Tarrant County NAACP will continue to fight the good fight to ensure that the punishment of such acts fits the crime.  We believe there is no solution to tragedy, but we are hopeful for a resolve of full and total justice in the case of such crimes. 

We hold hope that acceptance of the decision is a basis for continued discussion on how we can ensure movement to reach full and total justice.”

This story will be updated.