The chief prosecutor for the eastern U.S. city of Baltimore has announced criminal charges against six police officers involved in the arrest of Freddie Gray, saying the state medical examiner has determined his death in police custody was a homicide.

State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby said Friday that Gray suffered a severe and critical neck injury while being transported in the police van on April 12. She said he was not secured by a seat belt as he should have been and that officers did not seek or render medical assistance, even when Gray said he needed it. Mosby also called the arrest itself “illegal”, saying the knife found on the 25-year-old black man was not a switchblade and was lawful for him to be carrying.

The charges against the six officers include second degree murder against one of them, as well as involuntary manslaughter, second degree assault, misconduct in office and false imprisonment. Mosby said a warrant has been issued for the officers’ arrests.

At the White House, President Barack Obama said it is “vital” that the truth about what happened to Freddie Gray comes out. He also stressed that those charged in his death are entitled to due process.

“It is absolutely vital that the truth comes out on what happened to Freddie Gray. It is my practice not to comment on the legal processes involved. That would not be appropriate,” the president told reporters. “But I can tell you that justice needs to be served. All the evidence needs to be presented.

“Those individuals who are charged obviously are also entitled to due process and rule of law. So I want to make sure that our legal system runs the way it should,” Obama added. “The Justice Department and our new attorney general is in communications with Baltimore officials to make sure that any assistance we can provide on the investigation is provided. What I think the people of Baltimore want more than anything else is the truth. That’s what people around the country expect.”

Friday’s announcement comes amid a widespread outcry over Gray’s death — the latest instance of alleged police violence against black males that has sparked protests and calls for justice across the country.

Mosby said she had the opportunity to meet with Gray’s family and assured them “no one is above the law.”

Decision cheered

Her statements Friday were met with cheers by some of those gathered to hear her speak. Mosby acknowledged those intently watching Gray’s case and appealed to them for calm.

“To the people of Baltimore and the demonstrators across America, I heard your call for ‘no justice, no peace,’ your peace is sincerely needed as I work to deliver justice on behalf of this young man,” she said.

VOA reporter Victoria Macchi, who attended the press conference says a resident she spoke to was pleased with the announcement.