Ames Today

A peaceful protest held May 30 at Ames City Hall in response to the death of black man George Floyd, who was killed by a white Minneapolis police officer, drew approximately 300 people and the thanks of the Ames Police Department.

The Ames Tribune reported that "roughly 300 people from throughout the county" were at city hall beginning around 4 p.m. in response to Floyd’s death on May 25.

Floyd, who was 46, died after officer Derek Chauvin pinned the side of Floyd’s neck with his knee for several minutes, the Ames Tribune reported.

Floyd’s death caused nationwide protests, some that have been violent, even as Chauvin was charged with second-degree murder, second-degree manslaughter and third-degree murder, the Ames Tribune reported.

The Ames Police Department thanked everyone for the peaceful protest on its May 30 Facebook post. 

“We really appreciate the conversations and the opportunity to engage the awesome people we serve. From every Ames Police Officer, thank you. It is our honor to serve,” the department said.

Jeana Tucker commented on the Facebook post that she appreciated “every officer that stood with us and talked with us.”

“My family is truly blessed to be a part of the Ames Community,” Tucker wrote on the Facebook post. "This really lit a candle under my fire and makes me proud to work towards my goal of being an officer in Ames. Thank you all for your service and I especially want to thank Officer Elijah and Chief of Police Chuck for always welcoming a conversation with me. Keep up the good work.”