There have recently been very high tensions in Ferguson, Missouri over the acts of the Ferguson Police Force. These acts include the shooting of Michael Brown that occurred on August 9, 2014, in Ferguson,a suburb of St. Louis. Brown, an 18-year-old black man, was fatally shot by Darren Wilson, 28, a white Ferguson police officer.
In retaliation of these acts, whether “right” or “wrong,” the community has killed more than 3 police officers and multiple riots have occurred since the event. also been repercussions all across the country since these chains of events. One of these include a worker at Chipotle in downtown Brooklyn, who did the anti-cop “Hands up, don’t shoot” gesture when nine NYPD officers entered the restaurant on December 16.
Other events include one of the largest riots to have happened in a very long time occurring in Ferguson. During the riot many cars and buildings were broken into and set aflame. Stores lost merchandise due to theft and others lost what could be their life savings. It has been and still will be a very tough to overcome this challenge. This event was sparked not only by the shooting of Michael Brown, but also by the decision of the Grand Jury to not indict Ferguson police officer, Darren Wilson.
Just on Thursday, March 12th two Ferguson police officers were shot and both put into critical condition. One officer, a St. Louis county officer ,41, is a 14 year veteran of the force, was shot in the shoulder and the Webster Grove officer, 31, and a 7 year veteran of the force was shot from “point blank” in the right cheek, just right below the right eye.
A 20-year-old man was charged on Sunday with first-degree assault in March’s shooting of two policemen during a protest rally in Ferguson, Missouri, a crime that shocked a city that has been devoured by months of racial strife.
The suspected shooter, Jeffrey L. Williams, has admitted to firing the shots that wounded the officers early on Thursday, stated St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Robert McCulloch to “Reuters News”.
Of the many issues with the crowds and riots in Ferguson, Missouri the police force there has decided to call in and have the Missouri State Troopers come out to aide the Ferguson police. When asked if this was a good decision SLV 9th grade student said, “Yes, because these events were quickly getting out of hand.” When another SLV 9th grader was asked, Jordan Yanowitz had the same views.
Though many of the issues surrounding this issue are causing constant turmoil and negativity between people, there are many looking to spread positivity, learning from these unfortunate circumstances.
This is still an important issue for all of the U.S. to stay present with.
The community in Ferguson and nationwide are being continuously affected by the decisions of the police force and protesters, setting the stage for monumental shifts towards an open and understanding mindset. Learning from those seeking the positivity and lessons to be taught from these current circumstances, people worldwide are becoming extremely aware of the importance of equality for all humans.
By Andy Wise, News writer
The Claw 