02-06-2025
Kent Co. Commissioner launches town hall series after dismissal of high-profile police cases
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Kent County Commissioner Robert Womack is launching a following the dismissal of charges in two high-profile police cases and the upcoming closure of a local Job Corps center.
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The first meeting in the 'State of Emergency' series begins at 6 p.m. Monday at the Wealthy Theater. Womack says the event will address public reaction to recent legal decisions involving former officers and , as well as broader concerns around police reform and community rights.
Schurr will not be retried in the shooting death of Patrick Lyoya. Charges against Keely were dismissed after he struck and killed Samuel Sterling with an unmarked cruiser. Womack is calling for Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel to appeal the Keely ruling.
Panelists for tonight's event include attorneys Ben Crump and Ven Johnson, local civil rights leaders, NAACP representatives, and family members of Lyoya and Riley Doggett.
'Abomination of justice': Community leaders react to Keely case dismissal
'This decision sends a clear message to Michigan citizens: that police can act as judge, jury and executioner in our neighborhood,' . 'Fortunately, not all officers are evil. While I advocate for citizens to follow police commands, I strongly believe it is wrong to give police the power to kill unarmed individuals without consequence. Our constitution guarantees protection from cruel or unusual punishment.'
The town hall will also address the phased closure of the Job Corps center on Hall Street, set to end operations this month.
Dates and locations for the remaining three meetings have not been announced.
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