Freeholder Director’s Thankful for Protesters, Officers Gathering for George Floyd

CREST HAVEN – The following is a statement from Cape May County Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton on the death of George Floyd and the protests that have taken place since in Cape May County:
“We have seen our residents act in responsible protests after the horrible death of George Floyd and others before him. I was among the Americans who were outraged over the death of Mr. Floyd.
“However, the last few days in Cape May County have been very proud ones for me. We have seen amazing responses in Middle Township, Ocean City, and Wildwood. It has been very heartening to see local police departments working with protestors to have important conversations, share prayers, and make connections. The photos and stories coming from these demonstrations give me hope that we all can work towards a better tomorrow.
“We just recently remembered Memorial Day, a day to honor those men and women who never returned home. They died to protect our country and our way of life. As someone who has served in the United States Air Force and who has taken multiple oaths of office as an elected official, I fully support the United States Constitution, which importantly includes the right to free speech and the right of the people to peacefully assemble.
“Our Cape May County residents have fully exercised these two portions of our First Amendment. I hope each one of these individuals who participated in the protests this week stay engaged in the political process going forward.”