Baltimore police officer acquitted of all charges in Freddie Gray case

A judge acquitted a Baltimore police officer on Monday of all charges in connection with the death of Freddie Gray, according to The Baltimore Sun.

Lt. Brian Rice, one of the six officers facing charges in connection with Gray’s death, was cleared Monday of involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment and misconduct in office.

{mosads}Baltimore Circuit Judge Barry Williams dismissed a second-degree assault charge during the trial, and prosecutors dropped a separate misconduct charge.

Rice waived his right to a jury, so Williams delivered the decision.

Gray died from spinal injuries he suffered while riding in a police van after his arrest just over a year ago. The officers involved reportedly restrained Gray but did not use a seat belt. His death spurred protests and riots in Baltimore.

Prosecutors said Rice caused Gray’s death by not properly buckling him in for transport. Williams said prosecutors hadn’t proved Rice’s guilt.

Rice was the fourth officer involved in the incident to go to trial.