Robinson Family Says It’s Disappointed In DA’s Decision Not To Press Charges

Rally Will Be Held Wednesday To Protest DA's Decision

By
Shamane Mills/WPR

The family of Tony Robinson is disappointed there will not be criminal charges filed against the Madison police officer who fatally shot the 19-year-old black man last March.

Tony Robinson’s uncle, Turin Carter, said the Dane County district attorney’s decision means there won’t be criminal trial in the case, something the family had sought.

“That option has been taken away from us,” said Carter.

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A civil rights attorney for the family, Jon Loevy, told reporters he still has questions about what happened March 6 when Officer Matt Kenny shot Tony Robinson, after police say Kenny was punched in the head and knocked off balance.

“We have more questions than you do, and we don’t have answers,” he said.

Robinson’s family had earlier criticized the investigation done by the state Justice Department that was forwarded to the DA.

Loevy told reporters the family supports the community’s need to express frustration and even anger, but added that the family feels strongly the protests should be nonviolent.

“This is not a situation where people should get hurt or the community should tear itself apart — that makes no sense,” said Loevy.

Madison police report no arrests at Tuesday’s march to the state Capitol following the family press conference. Police estimate that 250 people attended that rally.

Another rally has been planned Wednesday by the Young Gifted and Black coalition.