Baltimore cop who drove van found not guilty in Freddie Gray trial

A Baltimore police officer was found not guilty Thursday of all charges in connection with the death of Freddie Gray, according to multiple reports.

Officer Caesar Goodson, who was driving the van, faced the most serious charges against the six officers charged for their roles in connection with Gray’s death.

His charges included second-degree depraved heart murder, three counts of manslaughter, second-degree assault, reckless endangerment and misconduct in office, The Baltimore Sun reported.

{mosads}Goodson opted for a bench trial. Baltimore Circuit Judge Barry Williams delivered the decision.

Gray died after suffering fatal injuries while being transported by police after his arrest just over a year ago. 

Goodson’s defense attorneys said that the officers who checked on Gray did not know he was injured. 

His death spurred protests and riots in Baltimore.

Last month, Officer Edward Nero was acquitted of all charges in connection with the death of Freddie Gray.

Four other officers still face charges in connection with their roles in Gray’s death. Lt. Brian Rice is the next officer who will face a trial.

It was argued that Goodson had chances to aid Gray and was the direct cause of Gray’s injuries, because he was driving the van recklessly and Gray was shackled but not wearing a seat belt. 

Williams said the state did not prove its theories.

“The court cannot simply let things speak for themselves,” he said in his ruling.

The judge said the term “rough ride” was an “inflammatory term … not to be taken lightly.”

Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake urged citizens to “be patient and to allow the entire process to come to a conclusion,” noting Goodson will now face an administrative review by the Police Department.

“I am proud that we as a community have come together to move our city forward over the past year,” she said in a statement. 

“I know that the citizens of Baltimore will continue to respect the judicial process and the ruling of the court.”

My statement on the judge's decision in the criminal trial of Officer Caesar Goodson #GoodsonTrial pic.twitter.com/t9TYH0MHwF

— Mayor Rawlings-Blake (@MayorSRB) June 23, 2016

– Updated at 11:55 a.m.