ATTORNEY GENERAL
HOLDER 'S STATEMENT ON THE CONCLUSION OF THE GRAND JURY PROCEEDING IN THE SHOOTING
OF MICHAEL BROWN
______________________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
AG
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24,
2014
(202)
514-2007
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544-5309
ATTORNEY GENERAL
HOLDER STATEMENT ON THE CONCLUSION OF THE GRAND JURY PROCEEDING IN THE SHOOTING
OF MICHAEL BROWN
WASHINGTON—Attorney General Eric Holder released the
following statement Monday regarding the conclusion of the St. Louis
County grand jury proceeding in the shooting of Michael Brown:
“While the grand jury proceeding in St. Louis County has
concluded, the Justice Department’s investigation into the shooting of Michael
Brown remains ongoing. Though we have shared information with local
prosecutors during the course of our investigation, the federal inquiry has
been independent of the local one from the start, and remains so now.
Even at this mature stage of the investigation, we have avoided prejudging any
of the evidence. And although federal civil rights law imposes a high
legal bar in these types of cases, we have resisted forming premature
conclusions.
“Michael Brown’s death was a tragedy. This incident
has sparked a national conversation about the need to ensure confidence between
law enforcement and the communities they protect and serve. While
constructive efforts are underway in Ferguson and communities nationwide, far more
must be done to create enduring trust. The Department will continue to
work with law enforcement, civil rights, faith and community leaders across the
country to foster effective relationships between law enforcement and the
communities they serve and to improve fairness in the criminal justice system
overall. In addition, the Department continues to investigate allegations
of unconstitutional policing patterns or practices by the Ferguson Police
Department.
“Though there will be disagreement with the grand jury's
decision not to indict, this feeling should not lead to violence. Those
who decide to participate in demonstrations should remember the wishes of
Michael Brown's parents, who have asked that remembrances of their son be
conducted peacefully. It does not honor his memory to engage in violence
or looting. In the coming days, it will likewise be important for local
law enforcement authorities to respect the rights of demonstrators, and
deescalate tensions by avoiding excessive displays—and uses—of force.”
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