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U.S. Senators from Missouri Encourage Peaceful Protests

Larry W. Smith, epa

As violent protests broke out in Ferguson, Missouri following the announcement that officer Darren Wilson will not be indicted in the shooting death of 18-year-old Michael Brown, Missouri's U.S. Senators issued statements.

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt encouraged those who continue to protest the decision in the Michael Brown case to do so peacefully.  In a statement released shortly after the announcement was made, Blunt said he’s met with clergy members and local leaders in Ferguson since August, and they all agree their first priority is peacefully healing and rebuilding the community after months of unrest.

Blunt called Michael Brown’s death “a tragic loss for his family and for the community.”

But he said the right of Americans to exercise their free speech must be balanced with the rights of people to live peacefully and safely in their communities.

According to Blunt, “law enforcement officials have been candid in identifying ways officers could have handled the situation in Ferguson better.”  He’s hopeful those recommendations will help in the future.

U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill said Tuesday, "there will be many people who are disappointed in today’s decision, even though it is a result of a deliberate legal process that’s being independently checked by Attorney General Eric Holder and the U.S. Justice Department. While we await the conclusion of that independent investigation—and continue working together for solutions to systemic issues highlighted by this tragedy—I’m praying that the good people of St. Louis and local law enforcement will remain peaceful and respectful of one another.”

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.