An American youth was acquitted of the charge of intentionally killing protesters.. and Trump congratulates him
The American youth Kyle Rittenhouse who shot two people on the sidelines of anti-racism protests in 2020 in Kenosha was acquitted, at the conclusion of a case that exposed divisions in the United States over firearms and the "Black Lives Matter" movement.
Twelve jurors in a Wisconsin state court on the fourth day of deliberations declared Rittenhouse "not guilty" of the five counts.
The 18-year-old white man, who was facing a life sentence, stressed during his trial that he was in legitimate self-defence.
When the verdict was read, he broke down in tears before quickly leaving the courtroom.
Outside, his supporters shouted of joy.
Democratic President Joe Biden said he was "concerned and angry," but in a statement called on Americans to respect the jury's decision.
"I call on everyone to express their opinions peacefully while respecting the law," he said.
Former President Donald Trump, who had previously publicly defended Rittenhouse after the facts, reiterated Friday night his support for him.
"Congratulations on the acquittal of Kyle Rittenhouse," Trump said in a statement issued by his spokesman.
To avoid potential gatherings, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers asked 500 National Guard soldiers to prepare to intervene.
Biden said he offered to support by deploying federal forces.
In court, only a few people lamented the decision, chanting "Guilty, guilty, the system is so guilty."
"It's a sad day for the United States," worker Will Diaz, 44, told AFP.
On August 23, 2020, when the United States was witnessing massive demonstrations against racism and police violence, major unrest was recorded in this Great Lakes region city after an attack targeting a black American citizen.
At the time, Kyle Rittenhouse, a 17-year-old who had armed himself with an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, joined armed groups that came to "protect" the stores, and shot under mysterious circumstances, killing two men and wounding a third.
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