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Mayor Scott asks Little Rock citizens to remain peaceful after officer cleared in fatal shooting

In his statement, Mayor Scott reminds the public that there is a Little Rock mother who continues to grieve over the loss of her son.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Mayor Frank Scott Jr. has released a statement over the prosecuting attorney's decision to not file charges in the February 22 officer-involved shooting of Bradley Blackshire.

In his statement, Mayor Scott reminds the public that there is a Little Rock mother who continues to grieve over the loss of her son.

"I have prayed with her this afternoon, and will continue to pray for her peace, strength and comfort during this time of sorrow," Mayor Scott said.

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The mayor says that he understands the range of emotions that today's decision stirred because he shares the same pain and frustration.

"However, I personally ask that the citizens of Little Rock remain peaceful." 

According to the statement, the Internal Affairs investigation to determine policy violations or disciplinary action will be decided within two weeks. 

According to Blackshire's family lawyer, Omavi Shakur, Charles Starks' actions were criminal. The family disagrees with the prosecutor's decision and will be undeterred in their pursuit of justice.

"We ask that the community not give the authorities any excuse to further neglect their responsibility to make amends for this devastating tragedy. Let us be constructive in the wake of Starks' destructive actions," Shakur said.

Shakur also wants the public to know the family seeks justice, not retribution. "Retribution without justice does nothing to help us reach our ultimate goal of ensuring that no family has to experience what we are going through right now."

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