Missouri governor declares state of emergency as Ferguson awaits grand jury verdict

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon signed an executive order Monday declaring a state of emergency as Ferguson and the larger St. Louis area prepare to learn whether a grand jury will charge police officer Darren Wilson with the killing of teenager Michael Brown.

Law enforcement and protest groups have been preparing for more violence in Ferguson in the event that Wilson is not indicted for a crime in the fatal shooting of Brown. Missouri National Guard units will also be available to assist law enforcement in the event of unrest in the state

“These additional resources will support law enforcement’s efforts to maintain peace and protect those exercising their right to free speech. The National Guard is well-suited to provide security at command posts, fire stations and other locations as well as perform other functions that will free up law enforcement officers to remain focused on community policing and protecting constitutional rights,” Nixon said in a statement.

Protests and a subsequent police crackdown, including the firing of tear gas, began in early August, after Brown was fatally shot. Several Ferguson-area residents told the NewsHour later that month that violent protests could result if Wilson is not charged with a crime.

Protestors took to the streets of St. Louis on Sunday, with many lying down in chalk outlines.

An announcement from the grand jury is expected in the coming days.

Listen to a selection of voices from black and white residents of Ferguson about the Brown shooting and the aftermath, collected by the NewsHour this August.