A Father’s Fight Paved Way For DOJ’s Open Investigation Into Kenosha Shooting

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Protesters march with the family of Jacob Blake during a rally against racism and police brutality in Kenosha, Wisconsin, on August 29, 2020.





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Wisconsin AG Pushes Back On Criticism Of Investigation Into Jacob Blake Shooting

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul is overseeing the FBI-led probe into the shooting of Jacob Blake. His office has come under fire for releasing limited details about the shooting.

«I absolutely understand why people are skeptical, Kaul told NPR. «We have a history of systemic racism, and our criminal justice system is part of that. What I can tell you is that I am personally committed to making sure that this investigation is conducted vigorously and that we’re pursuing justice and following the facts where they lead.

Bell, who recalled trying to get Kaul’s attention in the aftermath of his son’s death, isn’t reassured by the state attorney general’s promises.

«I brought extremely credible evidence to Kaul and he wouldn’t give us the time of day. So if he’s doing an about-face on this, I am bothered by that, said Bell.

Still, Bell hopes that his work to get Wisconsin the protection of outside investigations into police shootings will pay off in the form of a just outcome for Blake’s family.

«I want everybody to know that there are a lot of parallels between Jacob Blake and my own son, Bell said. «But we did not have the benefit of having an outside investigation conducted. And after fighting so hard for that law, Jacob Blake’s family has that benefit that we never had.

NPR’s Sophia Boyd and Martha Ann Overland produced and edited the audio version of this story.