A Baltimore judge declared a mistrial in the case against officer William Porter on charges associated with the death of Freddie Gray, who suffered a severed spine after his arrest and ride in a police van.
The decision comes on Wednesday just three days after the jury failed to reach a guilty verdict.
Officer Porter was charged with involuntary manslaughter, second-degree assault, misconduct in office, and reckless endangerment in associated with Gray's death.
Chief Deputy State's Attorney Michael Schatzow argued that the 26-year-old officer "criminally neglected his duty to keep Mr Gray safe," according to NBC News.
Officer Porter pleaded not guilty and said that he did not deny Gray medical attention.
Protesters began to line up outside the courthouse after the verdict was announced. However, Officer Porter may face another trial if State's Attorney Marylin Mosby decides to pursue a re-trial.
Baltimore Mayor Rawlings-Blake said in a statement shortly after the announcement.
"A few minutes ago, Judge Barry G Williams.declared a mistrial in the criminal case of Officer William Porter because the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict. It is now up to State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby to determine whether to further pursue criminal charges," she said in a statement on Wednesday. "This is our American system of justice. Twelve Baltimore residents listened to the evidence present and were unable to render a unanimous decision."
"As a unified city, we must respect the outcome of the judicial process. In the coming days, if some choose to demonstrate peacefully to express their opinion, that is their constitutional right," she said.
"I urge everyone to remember that collectively, our reaction needs to be one of respect for our neighborhoods, and for the residents and businesses of our city. In the case of any disturbance in the city, we are prepared to respond. We will protect our neighborhoods, our businesses and the people of our city."
Officer Porter's next court date will be decided on Thursday.
Michaela Brown, a spokesperson for activist group Baltimore Bloc, said that the criminal justice system does not value black lives.
"Baltimore Bloc has repeatedly called for justice, which will only be served if Porter is convicted on all charges. We call on State’s Attorney Mosby to move quickly to retry Porter," she told the Baltimore Sun.
"This is not over. Freddie Gray was treated as less than human and killed in police custody. Anything less than convicting Porter on all charges confirms that our criminal justice system does not value Black lives. The system is structured to protect those with privileges from those who lack it. There is no doubt that a conviction should have happened. We will get another day in court."
