NAACP march scheduled to reach JC on Friday

The march from Ferguson to Jefferson City is expected to arrive in the Capital City on Friday, a day earlier than previously expected, local officials said Wednesday.

The more than 120-mile march, "Journey for Justice: Ferguson to Jefferson City," began Saturday in response to the grand jury's decision not to indict police officer Darren Wilson for killing Michael Brown Jr., 18.

According to reports from Reuters, approximately 150 people gathered in Ferguson on Saturday to begin the march, with more expected to join along the way. The march's purpose is to call for new leadership for the Ferguson Police Department and for new reforms in police practices and culture both locally and nationally.

Today, Capt. Doug Shoemaker, Jefferson City Police Department spokesman, said police have been told the marchers will arrive about noon Friday at the eastern city limits of US 50 East. Their planned route is to walk Monroe Street to Capitol Avenue, assembling at the Governor's Gardens. At 3 p.m., they will march to the Capitol and stay for approximately one hour. At 4 p.m., their plan is to disburse and return to their respective home communities.

Said Shoemaker: "We would again emphasize that this is the latest information we have and we are continuing to maintain contact with Rod Chapel, our local NAACP president, regarding their plans. Additionally, we have not received any information of any threat, and all indicators reflect that is intended to be a peaceful demonstration.

"Also, this will not logistically conflict with the existing Living Windows event to be held downtown Friday evening," he said.