Officer Rusten Sheskey has returned to Kenosha Police Department after shooting Jacob Blake Jr. in August. Following the shooting, Sheskey was placed on administrative leave and an independent investigator looked into the matter further. After spending months looking into the matter, it is unlikely that Sheskey will face any discipline within the police department after rejoining the force.
"The Kenosha Police use of force incident on August 23, 2020 was investigated by an outside agency; has been reviewed by an independent expert as well as the Kenosha County District Attorney. Officer Sheskey was not charged with any wrong doing. He acted within the law and was consistent with training. This incident was also reviewed internally. Officer Sheskey was found to have been acting within policy and will not be subjected to discipline," Kenosha Police Chief Daniel Miskinis stated.
"As of March 31, 2021, Officer Sheskey has returned from administrative leave. Although this incident has been reviewed at multiple levels, I know that some will not be pleased with the outcome; however, given the facts, the only lawful and appropriate decision was made."
It is also unlikely that Sheskey will face any criminal charges. Earlier this year, Kenosha County District Attorney Mike Graveley said that Sheskey was justified in his use of force because Blake Jr. had a knife. However, the knife in question was found on the floorboard inside the car and Sheskey first approached Blake Jr. while he was away from the car. Blake Jr. also never threatened Sheskey with the knife.
While Sheskey may not face criminal charges, he may be met with a civil lawsuit. Blake Jr. has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against Sheskey, accusing him of "excessive and unnecessary" force.
"We believe that this lawsuit will help establish accountability," attorney B'Ivory LaMarr told ABC News.
Blake Jr., who was paralyzed after the incident, continues to undergo physical therapy.
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