Rep. Hutton Issues Statement On Current Conflict In Kenosha

Press release from Rep. Rob Hutton:

Aug. 27, 2020

Over the weekend we witnessed videos of a shooting by Kenosha Police Officers, and our hearts go out to all who were involved in this tragic situation. We pray for the recovery of Jacob Blake and comfort for his family. We also grieve for those families who lost loved ones last night, and pray for those families, as well as the officers who were directly involved with this incident.

Since that initial event, riots have engulfed the beautiful city of Kenosha, with widespread and wanton destruction. Though we do not know the full details of either situation, we do know that tonight, families across the state are grieving. We support those who demand answers via peaceful demonstrations, while condemning the actions of those (many who platoon in from other cities and states) who use a tragic event to bring down personal harm and economic devastation upon innocent victims of that community; a devastation many will never recover from.

When it comes to such events, leaders in the community must seek to defuse the emotions and anger of the moment, and bring clarity to a path forward. Unfortunately, in this and other situations across southeast Wisconsin, State and local leaders have often made matters worse by not denouncing the violence and destruction, and rationalizing the violence instead of calling for peace.

Residents in my district and around the State fear that weak responses from these elected leaders will only motivate those rioters to continue in Kenosha, and beyond. This is not a time for political rhetoric or half-hearted action. This is a time for resolute leaders to demonstrate peace, order, and civility by their words and by their actions. Only then can our system of Due Process function, and work towards ensuring justice for all.

This press release was produced by Rep. Rob Hutton. The views expressed here are the author's own.