Newtown officials have released statements in response to a handcuffed man losing his life while in custody in Minneapolis. 

Police Chief James Viadero says sworn law enforcement officers who have taken an oath to protect and serve the community are all sickened by what transpired.  He says it undermines and diminishes public trust in law enforcement and underscored that everyone  deserves to be treated fairly, with dignity, respect, and expect impartiality when dealing with law enforcement. 

"On a daily basis men and women honor their oath, risking their lives for the safety of the communities and citizens to which they serve. The actions of one officer is viewed as a failure to all who serve in our chosen profession," Viadero said. "Equally disturbing is the actions of other officers who stood idly by while this act occurred. We have been entrusted to act when we witness injustices and protect those who are victims, this clearly did not happen in this instance."

Newtown First Selectman Dan Rosenthal says there should be accountability when officers violate their oath, but answering with violence is not the answer as violence only begets violence.