Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has deployed 500 National Guard troops to Kenosha as residents await possible criminal charges being levied against the officers who shot Jacob Blake Jr. Kenosha County District Attorney Michael Gravely told citizens that he would come to a decision regarding possible charges within the first two weeks of January. However, a specific date has not yet been identified.
"Our members of the National Guard will be on hand to support local first responders, ensure Kenoshans are able to assemble safely, and to protect critical infrastructure as necessary," Evers said.
Blake was tragically shot and critically injured during an encounter with police on August 23, 2020. The Kenosha resident survived, but he is paralyzed from the waist down. Despite the setback, the Blake family has said that Blake Jr. continues to fight against the odds and make progress in his physical therapy.
"The way he is taking this mental approach, the way he puts all his effort into his therapy, and the passion, if anybody could walk again one day, it would be my nephew," his uncle, Justin Blake, said.
Afterward, video of the incident circulated around the internet and sparked protests across the country. His father, Jacob Blake Sr., has called for charges against the officers involved. He has also asked supporters to "stand up and make some noise."
"Let's be heard around the world. We're not going to stop in Kenosha. We're headed to DC. We're headed to Nancy Pelosi's office. We're headed to whoever is going to be in charge of the Senate. Because this has got to be federally heard, for not just my son, but for everybody who has suffered police brutality -- everyone," Blake Sr. said.
Photo Credit: Getty Images