Jan. 4, 2021 6:15p
(WGTD)---Family members and friends of Jacob Blake aren't sounding optimistic that the officer who shot the 29-year-old Kenosha man will face charges. They're already looking ahead to pursuing the matter in other venues.
Kenosha County District Attorney Michael Graveley is expected to announce his decision within the next few days after an investigation that has lasted months.
"I think it's clear-cut and there's no misunderstanding," Jacob Blake, Sr. said about the shooting of his son last summer by Officer Rusten Sheskey. "He shot him seven times in his back---unjustifiably. No one's life was threatened," Blake said.
Speaking to reporters outside of the RegiMen Barber Collective on 52nd St. just before a march through town, Blake urged citizens to protest. "We have to make some noise and be heard," Blake said. "We can't sit around anymore.
But those protests should remain non-violent, said Tanya McLean, an organizer for the Justice for Jacob Coalition and Leaders of Kenosha. "No matter what the decision is, we are seeking non-violence. We want everybody to come out and make as much noise as you want, but we don't want any destruction of property. We don't want anyone harmed," she said.
McLean said she believed that most of the property damage that occurred last summer was caused by outsiders. "I don't want anybody burning down or tearing up my stuff," she said.
McLean says members of the Blake family and activists are "disheartened" by a lack of communication from Graveley's office.
Jacob Blake, Jr.'s uncle, Justin Blake, said the family is ready to pursue the matter at state and federal levels if Graveley refuses to prosecute Sheskey. "The Blake family one day will get justice," he said. "We're a patient family."
Blake, Sr. said the family is ready to go to Washington again.
Despite the calls for non-violent protests, city and state officials have made preparations for a violent backlash. 500 National Guard troops have been sent in. The tall fence that encircled the courthouse, Public Safety Building and the county administration building last summer is back up. Sheridan Rd. near the courthouse is closed.
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