St. Louis County Prosecutor Robert McColluch attempted to shut down rumors and speculation surfacing on social media Monday as to when the grand jury will be deciding whether to indict Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson on any charges for fatally shooting 18-year old Mike Brown back in August. Brown was unarmed.
In a press release to the media from the attorney’s office, McColluch stated:
As recently as November 4, 2014 I stated that the Grand Jury in the Michael Brown case was still hearing evidence and had not made a decision. I also stated that I did not expect the Grand Jury to complete its work and make a decision until mid to late November. That timeframe has not changed.
I realize that this is a much anticipated decision and that there is daily, if not hourly, speculation about when the announcement will be released.
Once the work of the Grand Jury is completed and they have made a determination, my Office will advise the public and the media when their decision will be released. Until that notice comes directly from this Office, ANY AND ALL claims of an announcement date or time from any source, especially social media, are rank speculation and should be ignored.
Robert P. McCulloch
St. Louis County
Prosecuting Attorney
Social media, particularly on Twitter, has been fueling rumors based on law enforcement’s preparations, like replenishing tear gas stocks and acquiring new riot gear. The St. Louis County Police Department is reportedly taking these measures in light of the upcoming decision, which could spark anger or a mass celebration depending on the grand jury’s conclusion that will be released by the prosecutor’s office soon.
St. Louis County Police spokesman Brian Schellman told KMOV that since August, the county has spent $65,500 for new gear. This includes: helmets, shields, and batons. The department also spent an additional $35,000 to restock items like pepper spray, smoke canisters, and rubber bullets.
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