Minutes after a St. Louis County grand jury elected to not issue an indictment against Ferguson, Mo. police officer Darren Wilson for fatally shooting unarmed African-American teenager Michael Brown, Wilson issued a statement through his legal team.
The statement notably did not directly mention Michael Brown or his family.
Here is the full text of Wilson’s statement:
Today, a St. Louis County grand jury released its decision that no charges would be filed in the case involving Officer Darren Wilson. From the onset, we have maintained and the grand jury agreed that Officer Wilson’s actions on August 9 were in accordance with the laws and regulations that govern the procedures of an officer.
In a case of this magnitude, a team of prosecutors rightfully presented evidence to this St. Louis County grand jury. This group of citizens, drawn at random from the community, listened to witnesses and heard all the evidence in the case. Based on the evidence and witness testimony, the grand jury collectively determined there was no basis for criminal charges against Officer Wilson.
Law enforcement personnel must frequently make split-second and difficult decisions. Officer Wilson followed his training and followed the law.
We recognize that many people want to second-guess the grand jury’s decision. We would encourage anyone who wants to express an opinion do so in a respectful and peaceful manner.
On a side note, Officer Wilson would like to thank those who have stood by his side throughout the process. This continued support is greatly appreciated by Officer Wilson and his family.
Moving forward, any commentary on this matter will be done in an appropriate venue and not through the media.
H/T Christine Byers | Photo by Loavesofbread/Wikiedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
