Monday, November 24, 2014

Roy Blunt issues statement on Ferguson grand jury announcement

(From Sen. Roy Blunt)

Michael Brown’s death was a tragic loss for his family and for the community. Since August, I’ve been in close touch with clergy members and other local leaders, and I believe we all agree our first priority is peacefully healing and rebuilding the community after months of unrest.

“We must balance the rights of Americans to exercise their free speech alongside the rights of people to live peacefully and safely in their communities. I join Michael Brown’s family in urging protestors to do so peacefully.

“I’ve talked extensively to law enforcement officials to learn more about the tactics, resources, and procedures that our first responders utilize statewide. Law enforcement officials have been candid in identifying ways officers could have handled the situation in Ferguson better, and I trust those recommendations will be helpful as we continue to count on them to protect us.

“My thoughts are with Michael Brown’s family today, as well as those in law enforcement who continue to protect the rights of all they serve, the National Guard members we ask to step forward during difficult times in our state, and all of their family members.

“Michael’s death was tragic, and the months since this tragedy have marked a challenging time in Ferguson and across Missouri. Together, I know we can move forward and heal as we work to find better job opportunities in and more investment for challenged communities.”

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