A grand jury decided not to indict Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson on Monday, leading to a new outbreak of protests in the streets.
After the announcement was made that Wilson would walk free, protesters filled the streets, burning buildings and police cars and looting businesses. Over 80 people were arrested overnight for arson, burglary and unlawful assembly reports ABC News.
St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar said that the rioting was worse than what he had seen in August, immediately after Michael Brown’s death.
“The fabric of the community has been torn apart tonight,” Belmar said.
Armed police and the National Guard patrolled the streets, firing pepper spray into the crowds to break up the riots.
Immediately after the jury made its decision, President Obama appealed on television to honor Michael Brown’s parents wishes and protest peacefully.
"I join Michael's parents to ask anyone who protests this decision to do so peacefully," Obama said. "Let me repeat Michael's father's words: 'Hurting others and destroying property is not the answer. I do not want my son's death to be in vain.'"
Darren Wilson shot and killed 18-year-old Michael Brown on Aug. 9.
Publication date: November 25, 2014
