The policeman who shot Jacob Blake is back at work

Police officer Rusten Sheskey’s shot at Jacob Blake was captured on a mobile phone recording by a witness. No charges were brought against the policeman, as the prosecution believed he was acting in self-defense.

Blake was shot seven times in the back on his way into his car and was paralyzed from the waist down. The shooting sparked violent demonstrations in Wisconsin, and more than 250 people were arrested in the days that followed.

Kenosha Police Chief Daniel Miskinis said in a statement that Sheskey was back at work on March 31 and that he will not receive any disciplinary action.

– Although this incident has been reviewed on several levels, I know that some will not be happy with this outcome. Nevertheless, given the facts of the case, the only rightful and appropriate decision has been made, Miskinis said in the statement.

Sheskey and two other officers rushed to a woman who reported that her boyfriend was unwanted on the spot. Police tried to arrest Blake and used electroshock weapons, but to no avail.

Blake got into his car, and according to the police officers’ explanation, he leaned forward and took out a knife, which he refused to let go of when he was ordered to do so. Two of Blake’s children were sitting in the back seat. Sheskey’s lawyer, Brendan Matthews, has explained that Sheskey decided to shoot when Blake started turning towards Sheskey with the knife in his hand.

The shooting took place three months after George Floyd died after a police officer put his knee to his neck for more than nine minutes during an arrest.

(© NTB)

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