After more than 100 days of protests, a federal grand jury has determined Darren Wilson‘s fate.
18-year-old Michael Brown was shot and killed by the Ferguson police officer during an altercation on August 9. Police claim that Brown reached for Wilson’s weapon, while Brown’s family and several witnesses claim Wilson shot Brown while he was raising his hands to surrender.
The grand jury — consisting of nine white jurors and three black jurors — decided by majority NOT to indict Officer Wilson after deliberating for two days. The jury could have charged Wilson with first degree murder, second degree murder, manslaughter, or involuntary manslaughter.
After being informed of the decision by authorities, Brown’s family attorney Benjamin Crump released the news shortly before the official announcement:
“The jury was not inclined to indict on any charges.”
At 9:22 p.m. ET, county prosecutor Robert McCulloch confirmed the verdict in a televised press conference:
“No probable cause existed to charge Officer Wilson.”
In a statement, Brown’s family said they were “profoundly disappointed” by the decision but asked for peaceful protest. Unfortunately, that did not happen.
After the verdict was made public, some demonstrators threw bricks, bottles, and rocks. Several police cars were destroyed in the aftermath. Police have employed tear gas and bean bags against some demonstrators. There have also been confirmed reports of looting and destruction of property.
Non-violent protests have also taken place in New York City, Los Angeles, and Oakland.
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, who declared a state of emergency last week in anticipation of civil unrest, addressed the public shortly before the verdict:
“Our shared hope and expectation is that regardless of the decision, people on all sides show tolerance, mutual respect, and restraint. Together, we are all focused on making sure the necessary resources are on hand to protect lives, protect property, and protect free speech.”
Nixon’s words echoed those of President Obama, who on Sunday called for calm and asked citizens to “keep protests peaceful.” A number of local schools were also closed in anticipation of the verdict and will be closed Tuesday.
This story is developing…
[Image via Charlie Riedel/AP Photo]
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