Ferguson Police Chief Troy Doyle announced plans to release body camera footage from a recent protest that escalated to violence on the 10th anniversary of Michael Brown’s death, resulting in a severe brain injury to a Black police officer. The incident occurred in the Missouri town known for its association with the Black Lives Matter movement following Brown’s death in 2014. Chief Doyle, alongside other leaders, is set to address the media on Tuesday to provide updates on the investigation into the violence and the condition of Officer Travis Brown.
Officer Brown was part of a team dispatched to make arrests during the protest where demonstrators began dismantling a fence outside the police headquarters. A protester, identified as 28-year-old Elijah Gantt, tackled Officer Brown, causing him to fall and sustain a critical head injury. While Brown remains hospitalized, two other officers who pursued Gantt suffered minor injuries that were treated at the scene.
Travis Brown, aged 36, is not related to Michael Brown but shares a dedication to law enforcement, following in his father’s footsteps who served as a St. Louis police officer. Having joined the Ferguson Police Department more recently in January, Brown previously served in the St. Louis County Police Department since 2012.
Elijah Gantt faces charges of assaulting a special victim, resisting arrest, and property damage following the incident. Currently in custody on a $500,000 cash-only bond, Gantt awaits upcoming court dates without legal representation confirmed yet.
The violent episode that led to Officer Brown’s injury sparked outrage from Chief Doyle and members of the Ferguson community, where significant changes have been implemented in policing over the past decade. With a shift towards a more diverse police force and enhanced training in various areas like crisis intervention and bias awareness, the department has made strides towards fostering community trust and improvement.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the protest-related violence, a prayer vigil has been scheduled outside the police station for Tuesday evening to offer support and solidarity during this challenging time.