The Anti-Defamation League of Missouri and Southern Illinois released the following statement on Saturday:

The Anti-Defamation League today appeals to the region to remain calm as news reporting on ancillary events may create greater unease and uncertainty in advance of the release of the grand jury decision in the shooting death of Michael Brown.  The recent arrests of and charges filed against two members of the New Black Panther Party in St. Louis are but one example.  Olajuwon A. Davis, also known as Olajuwon Ali and Brandon Orlando Baldwin, also known as Brandon Muhammed, were indicted on Federal weapons violations for making straw purchases of two .45 caliber handguns at the Cabela’s sporting goods store in Hazelwood, Missouri.  After executing search warrants, additional charges being considered by the US Attorney are for attempting to purchase explosive devices, pipe bombs, with intent to cause damage to buildings and landmarks in the St. Louis area.

“At this remarkable time in St. Louis history”, said regional director Karen Aroesty, “we must recognize the danger that hate, bigotry and fanaticism represented by groups such as the New Black Panthers poses to our democracy.  The rule of law must still prevail.  Regardless of the grand jury decision, substantial work remains to be accomplished in the region, and we have confidence that the community will come together to achieve success for all.”

Aroesty added, “The suspected acts of a marginalized group of haters, no matter how much harm they may have sought to accomplish, cannot deter us from moving forward with energy and optimism.”