05 Jan 2021 | 04:42 PM UTC
US: Possible protests in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Jan. 5, as verdict on a high-profile, officer-involved shooting is announced
Activists likely to protest in Kenosha, Wis., US, Jan. 5, as verdict on high-profile, police officer-involved shooting is released.
Event
As of Jan. 5, city officials in Kenosha, Wis., are preparing for protests ahead of the county district attorney's decision over whether to charge any officers in the police-involved shooting of a man that occurred Aug. 23, 2020. Demonstrators will likely rally outside the Kenosha County Courthouse as they await the verdict. Additional demonstrations are also possible around the Kenosha Police Department in the downtown area and other nearby locations, such as Civic Center Park. Protests may also occur near the site of the shooting incident at the intersection of 40th Street and 28th Avenue.
A heightened presence of police officers is likely near any protests that materialize and potential gathering locations. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces are possible. Demonstrators could engage in acts of vandalism, arson, and other forms of property damage.
Context
Following the initial Aug. 23 incident of an officer-involved shooting of an African-American man, hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the Kenosha Public Safety Building, which houses the Police Department, and clashed with officers. Numerous businesses were vandalized late Aug. 23 and early Aug. 24.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations as a standard security precaution. Exercise caution if traveling near the protest-affected areas, especially in downtown Kenosha. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a nongovernment building. Strictly heed instructions from authorities. If you encounter a roadblock do not cross it; wait for police to reopen the road.
