Minneapolis community hosts listening session following Noor verdict

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - In the very room where Justine Ruszczyk Damond taught meditation, the community got a chance to gain some mental clarity and emotional calm.

“I hope to hear from the law enforcement what kind of commitments they are willing to make to the community, how to change policies,” one resident said.

City Council Member Linea Palmisano organized a listening session with Mayor Jacob Frey and Police Chief Medaria Arradondo to give the community a chance to talk about how Justine’s death has affected them.

“I don't want to go so far as to say this could be a healing session. Before we have a healing session, the listening session has to come first," Palmisano said.

Last week, former Minneapolis police officer Mohamed Noor was found guilty of third degree murder and second degree manslaughter for shooting Damond after she called police to report a possible sexual assault in the alley behind her house.

The city agreed to pay her family a record $20 million to settle their civil rights lawsuit. 

But, some say in light of this verdict, other investigations into recent police shootings should get another look.

"From what I saw in the Jamar Clark situation, Terrance Franklin killing, going all the way back to Tycel Nelson… I think they all were suspect. So, I'm saying reopen all the cases," said community activist Mel Reeves.

City leaders hope that by opening their ears, they can put some minds at ease.

"Giving people the chance to talk is always a good thing. Let them air some thoughts. Hopefully it will be a little bit healing," resident Sam Gisselman said.