Authorities in Missouri will take all necessary precautions in preparation for the outcome of a grand jury's decision regarding possible charges for Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson. Wilson shot and killed 18-year-old Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo. in August.
According to the Associated Press, protests organized in the wake of Brown's death have forced law enforcement agencies to gear up for similar responses once a decision about Wilson's future is made:
In the meantime, law officers have adjusted their tactics for interacting more peacefully with protesters while also honing their procedures for quick, widespread arrests. They plan to have a large contingent of officers at the ready, but have been meeting with clergy, community leaders and students in hopes of building relationships that could ease tensions on the streets.
I know there's a lot of anxiety, there's a lot of fear, anticipation" about that announcement, said Missouri State Highway Patrol Capt. Ron Johnson, who was put in charge of security in Ferguson in the days after Brown was killed and is now part of a coordinated command with local police. But I have a lot of hope.
The Associated Press adds that authorities will be given at least one day's notice prior to the grand jury decision. Furthermore, the decision could be announced as soon as within the coming month.
[via Associated Press]
