We are all witnesses.

On June 19, 2018, we watched the video of 17-year-old Antwon Rose II running away, unarmed, with his hands held high. We watched as he was shot three times in the back by Police Officer Michael Rosfeld.

Antwon Rose II was no threat to Michael Rosfeld.

We believe the family and loved ones of Antwon Rose II deserve justice.

We believe that in a democratic society, democracy fails when any citizen is denied a pathway to justice.

We believe that holding police accountable is essential for creating a meaningful relationship between the police and the community.

We believe that in order for justice to prevail, Michael Rosfeld must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law for the murder of Antwon Rose II.

We believe that if the Allegheny County District Attorney convicts Officer Michael Rosfeld, then we can finally begin the process of healing and reconciliation.

The focus should be on convicting Michael Rosfeld, not what a community in pain might or might not do.

We’ve all heard the slogan that Pittsburgh is “America’s Most Liveable City.” However, without justice, without accountability, without racial equality, the question remains, “For WHOM?” Only a two-tier system of justice that offers police preferential treatment would accept the notion that Michael Rosfeld is innocent of wrongdoing. Such a conclusion would send a very clear message to our community and the world that Black Lives Do NOT Matter.

The outcome of this trial can either deepen the division or show that we are truly “Stronger Together”.

The whole world is watching.

Sincerely,

Concerned Citizens of Allegheny County

As is now well known, Michael Rosfeld was found “not guilty” by the jury in his trial. That verdict does not in any way alter the truths expressed in the above letter.

TMC newspaper VOL. 49 No. 2 March 2019. All rights reserved.