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Sen. Baldwin, Rep. Moore issue letter over “lack of expedience” in federal review of Dontre Hamilton case
Sen. Baldwin, Rep. Moore issue letter over "lack of expedience" in federal review of Dontre Hamilton case
MILWAUKEE -- Last week, the attorney for the family of 31-year-old Dontre Hamilton, who was shot and killed by a former Milwaukee police officer in April 2014 in Red Arrow Park said Hamilton's family is frustrated a federal review of the case by the United States Department of Justice is taking so long. The federal investigation launched seven months ago -- and there has been no conclusion. This week, Senator Tammy Baldwin and Rep. Gwen Moore expressed similar concern -- and they've issued a letter to U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch.
"We're waiting. This family is waiting," Nate Hamilton, Dontre Hamilton's brother said.
Dontre Hamilton
A statement issued to FOX6 News by Rep. Moore's office says Senator Baldwin and Rep. Moore have issued the letter "in response to mounting frustration over the DOJ's lack of expedience in the assessment of potential civil rights violations in the Hamilton case."
"Misconduct is one thing, but when it leads to death, there should be something done. We've been saying 'hey, something needs to be done,'" Nate Hamilton said.
The letter issued to Attorney General Lynch reads as follows:
The United States Department of Justice announced on December 22nd, 2014 that it would begin a federal review of this case to determine if, under federal civil rights law, there is a basis, both legal and factual, upon which a federal civil rights prosecution may be premised.
The announcement regarding the federal review of this case came after the Milwaukee County District Attorney announced his decision, based on his review of the relevant facts and the applicable state law, not to initiate criminal charges against Milwaukee Police Officer Christopher Manney in connection with the death of Dontre Hamilton.
Jonathan Safran, the attorney for the Hamilton family, issued this statement to FOX6 News last week:
After Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm decided Manney would not be criminally charged in this case, a Fire and Police Commission panel decided to uphold Manney’s firing from MPD, and ruled that his use of force in this case violated policy.
Manney has appealed the FPC panel's decision.
Meanwhile, a Milwaukee County Board committee on Tuesday, July 21st voted 5-0 to establish a task force to organize a memorial for Dontre Hamilton.
CLICK HERE for further coverage of this case via FOX6Now.com.