Cleveland Browns wide receiver Andrew Hawkins made a silent statement during pre-game introductions at Sunday’s game against the Bengals.
Hawkins wore a shirt bearing the names Tamir Rice and John Crawford, both of whom died in police-involved incidents in Ohio.
Rice, 12, was shot by a Cleveland police officer Nov. 22 after reports of a male pointing what appeared to be a gun near the Cudell Recreation Center playground. It turns out Rice had a airsoft gun. He died from his injuries Nov. 23.
John Crawford, 22, was shot to death back in August at a WalMart in a Dayton suburb after a 911 caller reported he was waving what appeared to be a rifle. It turned out to be an air rifle.
The front of Hawkins’ shirt said “Justice for Tamir Rice and John Crawford,” and the back said “The real battle of Ohio.”
Cleveland Police Patrolman’s Association President Jeff Follmer released the following statement in reaction to Hawkins’ message:
“It’s pretty pathetic when athletes think they know the law. They should stick to what they know best on the field. The Cleveland police protect and serve the browns stadium and the Browns organization owes us an apology.”
In response, the Cleveland Browns released this statement: Read On From: Fox8.com
