Back in Dec. 2021, Kim Potter was found guilty of murdering Daunte Wright. Potter was found guilty of first- and second-degree manslaughter after taking Wright’s life during a traffic stop where she stated she thought she was grabbing her taser but instead pulled her gun.
During court today, Hennepin County Judge Regina Chu sentenced Potter to two years in prison. Prosecutors had requested Potter be sentenced to seven years and two months behind bars, yet on the opposing end, her attorneys argued she has no prior criminal history.
With today’s decision, Potter will have to serve two-thirds of her sentence (16 months). Furthermore, with good behavior, she could potentially be released from serving her entire sentence.
“There rightfully should be some accountability,” stated Judge Chu. “[A] cop who made a tragic mistake. She drew her firearm thinking it was a Taser, and ended up killing a young man.”
The Wright family released the following statement on Judge Chu’s decision via their team of attorneys (Ben Crump, Antonio Romanucci, and Jeff Storms):
“Today’s sentencing of Kim Potter leaves the family of Daunte Wright completely stunned. While there is a small sense of justice because she will serve nominal time, the family is also deeply disappointed there was not a greater level of accountability. The Judge’s comments at sentencing showed a clear absence of compassion for the victim in this tragedy and were devastating to the family. Judge Chu’s comments about Potter resembled those of a job recommendation and not that of a senseless and preventable death of a promising life. The death of Daunte remains excruciatingly painful and the family prays for greater peace and healing within their family and in their community. The Wright family appreciates the work of the jurors who found Ms. Potter guilty. Furthermore, our legal team will continue to fight for justice in the civil system in Daunte’s name.”
