Mike Kaminski, First Coast News
Angela Corey announces George Zimmerman's charge of second-degree murder at a press conference on Wednesday.
Here are statements from government officials on State Attorney Angela Corey's decision to charge George Zimmerman with second-degree murder in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin:
"This matter is now in the hands of the judicial system and I am confident justice will prevail. As the process continues, it is critical that we be patient and allow the proceedings to move forward in a fair and transparent manner. I thank State Attorney Angela Corey for her diligence in conducting a thorough investigation. We will all continue to look for answers to the Trayvon Martin tragedy."
--Florida Gov. Rick Scott
"When I worked with Governor Scott to appoint State Attorney Angela Corey to the case involving Trayvon Martin, I did so with the full confidence that a swift and thorough investigation would be conducted. Today, State Attorney Corey's decision to press charges against George Zimmerman for the shooting of Trayvon demonstrates Corey's commitment to bringing justice to Trayvon's family and allowing due process for Zimmerman."
--Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi
"State Attorney Angela Corey's decision to file charges against George Zimmerman in the shooting of Trayvon Martin is a positive first step towards some closure on this tragedy. From the very beginning, following my 5.5 hour meeting with the Sanford Chief of Police, City Manager, Mayor, and City Commissioner Williams, I have believed that there was sufficient evidence for an arrest. Millions of people around the world came to the same conclusion.
"We can all identify with Trayvon's parents and share their pain. When I met with them, I assured them I would do everything I could to make sure justice was served for their son. There can be no happy ending in this story, but people need to believe that the system works fairly for everyone and this development is a good sign."
--Congresswoman Corrine Brown, Third Congressional District of Florida
"This evening, State Attorney Angela Corey after announcing that 'they will continue to seek the truth throughout this case,' brought forth the charge against George Zimmerman of murder in the second degree."
"I applaud Special Prosecutor Angela Corey for seeking justice for Trayvon Martin which, was a priority for us." Angela is known for being hard on crime and she proved it today by conducting a fair investigation in this case. We respect that she is for the victims and the victim in this case is Trayvon Martin. Now, we will let the wheels of justice keep turning while we continue to stand with his parents to show our solidarity in this case."
--Florida Rep. Mia Jones, D-Jacksonville
First Coast News