Nimrod Chapel, Jr., President of the Missouri State Conference of the NAACP, today commented on the recent court decision that denied the appeal of former detective Eric J. DeValkenaere in the shooting death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb.

"We must commend Jean Peters Baker’s work and commitment to justice in this case. She should serve as a model for prosecutors," said Nimrod Chapel, Jr. "We need to be unwavering in our commitment to hold accountable those who misuse the power and trust vested in them by the communities they are sworn to protect."

Despite this positive development, the NAACP continues to question the actions of Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who had unusually asked the appeals court to reverse DeValkenaere's conviction or order a new trial for him. 

"It's disheartening to see the Attorney General yet again not aligning with the people's interest in justice. The role of the Attorney General should be to champion the cause of justice for all Missourians, not to make unusual legal moves that contradict the principles of accountability and equal protection under the law."

The Missouri NAACP will continue to monitor this case closely, especially in light of rumors that Governor Mike Parson might be considering a pardon or clemency for DeValkenaere.

"Any decision by the Governor to pardon DeValkenaere would be an affront to justice and the principle of equal protection under the law," Chapel concluded. "Such an action would further deepen the divide between law enforcement and the Black community."

Missouri NAACP's Travel Advisory continues to be in effect, warning people to be cautious while in Missouri due to a series of violent incidents and legislation that removed accountability for individuals who attack, discriminate against, and harass black Missourians.