On August 9, Michael Brown, an unarmed African-American 18-year-old, was fatally shot by Darren Wilson, a white police officer, as he was pursuing the teen in relation to a robbery in Ferguson, Missouri. The event led to a series of protests, both peaceful and violent, seeking criminal charges for Wilson.
On October 24, the American branch of the human rights organization published a report dealing with human rights abuses during protests in Ferguson earlier this year, including the arrest of 132 people for refusing to disperse, and the use of tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades.
“People must be assured that measures will be taken to prevent unnecessary or excessive force. The actions of law enforcement in the next few days will be absolutely critical to provide the necessary confidence that lessons have been learned,” added Hawkins.
On Tuesday the grand jury chose not to indict Darren Wilson for the shooting. Protests in Ferguson have begun following the verdict.
The family of Michael Brown have issued a statement, saying they were “profoundly disappointed” that Darren Wilson will not be facing consequences, and urging people to keep their protests peaceful, “Answering violence with violence is not the appropriate reaction. Let’s not just make noise, let’s make a difference.”
