Guard activated in case of Kenosha unrest

Posted at 4:15 p.m. on Monday, January 4, 2021

The Brillion News

MADISON - At the request of local authorities in Kenosha, Governor Tony Evers has authorized the Wisconsin National Guard to support local law enforcement in Kenosha after officials there requested the Guard’s assistance to help ensure public safety.

The request from Kenosha officials came after Kenosha Police said over the weekend that a decision is expected on whether to charge a city police officer for shooting a black domestic violence suspect.

“Our members of the National Guard will be on hand to support local first responders, ensure Kenoshans are able to assemble safely, and to protect critical infrastructure as necessary,” Evers said.

The governor ordered into state active duty members of the Wisconsin National Guard deemed necessary to support to local law enforcement and first responders in Kenosha.

Guard members called to active duty may only be used to provide support to local law enforcement and to protect critical infrastructure and cultural institutions necessary for the well-being of the community, and to provide support to first responders such as the Kenosha Fire Department.

The National Guard may not be used to impede the ability of people to peacefully protest or impede the ability of the media to report on this situation.

Kenosha officials requested Wisconsin National Guard assistance, and approximately 500 troops are being mobilized this week to state active duty in advance of an anticipated charging decision in the case of the officer-involved shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha that occurred Aug. 23, 2020.