(St. Louis Public Radio) – Gov. Eric Greitens is preparing the Missouri National Guard to be brought into St. Louis should there be protests after a verdict comes down in the case of an ex-officer charged with murder.
Greitens spokesman Parker Briden said the governor signed an order Thursday that “will allow the National Guard to take the necessary steps to be prepared to help if they are needed.” It comes as a judge is weighing whether to find Jason Stockley guilty of murder in the 2011 shooting death of Anthony Lamar Smith. Activists have promised days of protests if Stockley is acquitted.
“As Governor, I am committed to protecting everyone’s constitutional right to protest peacefully while also protecting people’s lives, homes, and communities. Taking the steps to put the Missouri National Guard on standby is a necessary precaution,” Greitens said.
The news release said the National Guard will need time to organize its people and equipment before the verdict is announced. There’s no word on when the judge will make his decision.
