Aug. 25, 2020 1:25p; Updated at 2:45p with quotes; 4:35 with Guard numbers
(WGTD)---The National Guard presence in Kenosha will be doubled to deal with tonight's anticipated continuance of trouble.
As many as 250 guard members are expected to be on hand, according to a joint news release from city and county leaders. In addition, more than 100 law enforcement officers from other communities in Wisconsin will continue to assist local efforts to quell the violence and destruction in the aftermath of the Jacob Blake shooting on Sunday, the release said.
During an emergency meeting of the Kenosha City Council Tuesday afternoon, an alderman made a reference to city officials exploring the possibility of bringing in "federal officers."
The comment was made at a meeting that was called to give Mayor Antaramian a series of emergency powers. Damage, looting and violence escalated Monday night, the second night of unrest following the Blake shooting.
During the discussion, multiple council members complained that they were left out of the planning loop, and unable to answer questions from constituents, many of whom are frightened. "Today I had 14 phone calls," said Ald. Dominic Ruffalo. "I had two people crying on the telephone. They're scared in all parts of town...people want answers. I want answers," Ruffalo said.
Tuesday's meeting--held virtually--was chaired by Council President Dave Bogdala. Bogdala was filling in for Antaramian, who was said to be busy making plans to beef up enforcement. Rumors swirled over even a greater number of people coming into Kenosha Tuesday evening for the sole purpose of causing more damage.
Some Council members--but not all--were apparently part of a meeting held Tuesday morning to assess the situation and weigh options. That's when Ald. Dan Prozanski mentioned that one option under discussion would be to ask for federal personnel.
Bogdala defended the police department's response. "They are doing all they can and unfortunately in some areas of the city it's not enough and we need to do more," he said.
The Council's newest member and the only African-American woman, Shayna Griffin, spoke forcefully several times, criticizing the lack of information. "I find that appalling," Griffin said. We have had no information..not one bit and I find that unacceptable."
In the joint release, both County Executive Kreuser and Mayor Antaramian that the violence and destruction is no longer a reaction to Sunday's tragic events. "A destructive element is coming in from outside our community to fuel destruction and chaos, to loot and to destroy."
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