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Milwaukee County Supervisors Stand in Solidarity, Wear 'I Can't Breathe' Shirts

County Board Staff

Credit County Board Staff
Milwaukee County Supervisor David Bowen

Milwaukee County's five African American supervisors spoke in support of Dontre Hamilton, and the other black men many believe have been unjustly killed by police.

Hamilton, an unarmed mentally ill man, was shot 14 times by former Milwaukee Police Officer Christopher Manney back in April.

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"This community can’t breathe, and it won’t take it anymore," Supervisor David Bowen said at today's meeting.

The saying on the supervisors’ shirts refer to some of Eric Garner's final words. Garner died in New York City after police there placed him in a choke hold.

Supervisors Khalif Rainey, David Bowen, Martin Weddle, Willie Johnson and Michael Mayo said they believe Manney should be charged for Hamilton's death. The men also spoke of the need for humanity and justice.

Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm's decision on whether Manney should face criminal charges is expected to be released soon.

Gov. Walker said Wednesday that the National Guard would be ready, in the event that unrest occurs as a result of the decision.

LaToya was a reporter with WUWM from 2006 to 2021.
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