Spring Valley to see protests in wake of grand jury ruling in Ferguson

The Village of Spring Valley is preparing for a sizable protest following the announcement of the Ferguson, Missouri grand jury’s findings in the shooting death of teenage African-American Michael Brown. The case has caused months of protests and riots in Ferguson and become a national flashpoint.

The “Ferguson Response Network” tumblr website lists dozens of planned events around the country, including one in Spring Valley scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Park the day following the announcement. [Update – The protest is now officially on for Tuesday evening].

At 9 p.m. Missouri authorities announced that no charges would be filed against Police Officer Darren Wilson, who was being investigated for possible criminal conduct in the shooting. Wilson had stated the shooting was in self-defense.

Sergeant Korba of SVPD said, “We are aware of the protest and will work to keep all parties safe.”

Sheriff Lou Falco echoed Korba’s remarks. He said, “I’ve been in communication with Chief Modica [of SVPD]. We will work with him to make sure both sides-the police and the protesters-have harmony.”

The possible size of the impending protest is unknown at this time. A march may occur following the gathering of protesters, but has not yet been confirmed.

Falco noted the protest would feature the deployment of the county’s Mounted Unit (police on horseback), which is proposed to be cut from the county’s 2015 budget.