As Missouri governor , Jay Nixon believes the most important part of his job is keeping the people of his state safe . To that end , he told reporters Tuesday that he 's working `` around the clock '' ahead of the grand jury decision in the case of Michael Brown . Brown , a black teen , was fatally shot by Darren Wilson , a white police officer , on August 9 . The jury is weighing whether to indict Wilson . Mayor anticipates protests in region where grand jury decides . `` In the days immediately following Michael Brown 's death , peaceful protests were marred by senseless acts of violence and destruction , '' the governor said . `` That ugliness was not representative of Missouri and it can not be repeated , '' said Nixon . Many protesters were furious because they felt Brown 's killing was an example of excessive use of force . They and heavily armed law enforcement clashed in the streets for days after Brown 's death . Brown 's parents address U.N . Authorities , who drove armored vehicles and wore military gear , were roundly criticized by members of the media , other law enforcement officials and demonstrators for escalating the violence , rather than tempering it . Though the grand jury has until January to issue its ruling on Wilson , the prosecutor 's office has said a decision could come as early as mid-November . Ferguson Mayor James Knowles has previously told local media that authorities must `` prepare for the worst '' and that he expects demonstrations across the area . Brown 's father said that he , too , foresees protests . `` We understand that our son is gone , but the movement will be that -- we 're trying to make sure that this does n't happen to anyone else , '' Michael Brown Sr. told CNN . Nixon made clear he 's not anticipating violence , but wants to be ready for anything . Police from various departments will operate as a unified command . The National Guard will be available as necessary . Law enforcement is prepared to extend shifts and limit leave , and additional resources have been distributed , Nixon said . `` These measures are not being taken because we are convinced that violence will occur , but because we have a responsibility to prepare for any contingency , '' said the governor . `` This is America . People have a right to express their views and grievances , but they do not have the right to put their fellow citizens or their property at risk , '' he said . Complete coverage of Ferguson .
Brown 's father : `` We 're trying to make sure that this does n't happen to anyone else '' Nixon talks about preparations being made ahead of the grand jury decision . The panel is weighing whether to indict the officer who killed Brown . Brown , a black teen , was fatally shot by Darren Wilson , a white officer .