Television personality Montel Williams posted a message blasting the looting and arson that followed the Ferguson grand jury's decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the Aug. 9 fatal shooting of Michael Brown.
Credit: Jennifer Brett
Credit: Jennifer Brett
"Ferguson - is this really how you think your going to raise the LEGITIMATE issue of the disconnect between law enforcement and the black community? By burning down a pizza restaurant and looting a beauty shop IN YOUR OWN NEIGHBORHOOD!"
Despite calls for calm from numerous leaders including President Barack Obama, who called for peaceful demonstrations in keeping with the wishes of Michael Brown's family, angry protesters set fire to buildings and police cars and looted businesses in Ferguson following the decision.
More than 80 people were arrested on charges including burglary and trespassing, authorities said.
Williams, whose message has been liked nearly 3,500 times on Facebook and shared nearly 600 times, said the violence and damage distracts from needed progress.
"THIS IS NOT HOW TO DO THIS - you've badly damaged the chances of making progress on the issue you so badly want to raise.
"This is insane. There is NO JUSTIFICATION.
"Then, to make matters worse, the chorus of stupidity from some on the far, far right makes me wonder if some of you think you're playing World of Warcraft."
The Atlanta Police Department reported no related incidents Monday night. A coalition of local leaders and activist groups plan a gathering in the Underground Atlanta/Five Points Marta station tonight.
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