A Grand Jury in Houston will end this week on the case of an HPD officer that shot an unarmed (black) guy that charged him while reaching into his pants. It will be interesting to see how things differ (or not) around here.
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Family calls for action from the grand jury
HOUSTON (FOX 26) -
"Jordan's life matters, Jordan's life matters!"
It was a hard thing to do, but Jordan Baker's family and loved ones came back to what they call "ground zero." It's the place where in January, according to Houston police, the 27-year-old man was stopped as a suspicious person in a parking lot. A struggle and foot chase ensued, and he was shot by an Houston Police Department officer.
"With the tremendous amount of faith, I feel that he is here and he is looking down and appreciates all of our efforts and all the support everyone has shown," says Janet Baker, mother of Jordan Baker.
Many people didn't know what to expect at the gathering.
While HPD officers patrolled close by, a helicopter monitored the situation from above.
But community activists and Jordan's mother made it very clear, this was a peaceful gathering, to pray for a decision from a grand jury, on whether Officer Juventino Castro will face charges.
"Let justice ring, let justice ring, Father, we declare today justice," prayed many people.
The family is optimistic, hopeful that a repeat of what happened in Ferguson, Mo. and New York City doesn't happen here.
"You have an opportunity to get this right," chanted many in attendance.
A Harris County grand jury is set to make a decision some time this week.
When I asked Jordan's mother if they would respect this final decision, this is what she said, "Right now, I am only remaining focused and faithful that there will be a positive outcome with justice for Jordan -- that's the only thing I can set my mind and heart on."
Present at the candlelight vigil was Jordan Baker's son, who cried as people chanted, "Hands up, don't shoot!"
Renae Tran, Jordan Baker's girlfriend, says, "He was a great person, great father. He was always there for baby Jordan no matter what."
During these trying times, a light of hope is lit as a symbol, not just of peace and love, but of justice.
