- The Washington Times - Friday, November 7, 2014

With fears rising over the potential for rioting in Ferguson, Missouri, President Obama spoke by phone Friday night with Gov. Jay Nixon to discuss the situation in the community.

The White House said Mr. Obama “emphasized the administration’s commitment to continue to provide assistance as needed.” A decision is expected soon by a grand jury investigating the shooting of black teenager Michael Brown in August by a white police officer in Ferguson.

The White House said Mr. Nixon “discussed his work with the Ferguson community over the past three months.”

Various reports have indicated that the officer, Darren Wilson, may not be charged with a crime. The news leaks have prompted predictions of more civil unrest in Ferguson, where protesters looted and burned stores after the teen’s death.

Earlier in the day, the president also received a briefing from the Justice Department about its “ongoing efforts to assist state and local government.”

The president will continue to receive updates on the situation from his team, including Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. and White House senior adviser Valerie Jarrett.

The Justice Department is conducting a probe to determine if Mr. Brown’s civil rights were violated. Mr. Holder said last week that the Ferguson police department, which is predominantly white, should be revamped from top to bottom.

• Dave Boyer can be reached at dboyer@washingtontimes.com.

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