Minneapolis Police Chief Posts Video Message about Protests

The Minneapolis police chief has issued a video message to potential protesters in advance of an upcoming decision on whether two officers will be charged in the November shooting death of Jamar Clark. 

Clark was shot in the head on November 15 by Minneapolis police. He died the next day after being taken off of life support. 

Police say Clark was a suspect in a domestic assault and was shot after allegedly interfering with paramedics who were trying to provide first aid to the victim. 

His death set off weeks of protests, including an 18-day occupation outside of a police precinct in Minneapolis. 

Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman says he hopes to announce a charging decision by the end of the month. 

In her message on the department’s website, Minneapolis Police Chief Janee Harteau says police have helped residents exercise their First Amendment rights, but public safety is the top priority.  She says acts of violence will not be tolerated following the announcement.