Rep. Chu Statement on Grand Jury Decision in Ferguson

Nov 25, 2014 Issues: Crime and Safety

WASHINGTON, DC – On Monday, a grand jury in St. Louis County, Missouri decided not to indict the officer who shot and killed Michael Brown, leading to riots and violence in Missouri and around the country. Michael Brown was unarmed at the time of the shooting. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) released the following statement:

“My thoughts are with Michael Brown’s family as they seek peace and closure in this incredibly difficult time. And I join with Michael’s father who called to honor his memory through change, not violence. And clearly, change is still needed. Racial profiling and prejudice still plague many communities in our country. We must work with civic, political, and community leaders to ensure that our governments, institutions, and policies address the concerns of our communities. At the same time, we must recognize  that building trust between communities and law enforcement means an end to the use of excessive force and the militarization of our police”

In September, when riots first broke out in response to the killing of Michael Brown, Rep. Chu called for review of the Defense Department’s 1033 program, which provides military surplus equipment to local police forces. Rep. Chu is a cosponsor the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act, H.R. 5478, which would give greater oversight over the sale of surplus military equipment to police departments.