GREENVILLE, SC (WSPA) – Greenville Police said they did not find any evidence for charges against the driver who drove through the Tanner’s Big Orange parking lot during the protest on June 8.
“There is no evidence to suggest that this vehicle was driven into the Tanner’s parking lot in a reckless manner with the intent to harm anybody in that parking lot,” said Lt. Tim Conroy.
Police said two people will be charged with malicious injury to property greater than $2,000 following the investigation. Police said surveillance video showed two men throwing rocks and other objects at the SUV, causing damage to the vehicle.
7 News previously reported Markeese Rashi Brand, 28, was arrested and charged. Police said they have contacted the other suspect and hope he turns himself in soon.
Not everybody is happy with the decision not to charge the driver.
“If you’re white and privileged you get the benefit of the doubt, then we look for probable cause,” said activist Bruce Wilson. “When you’re black and poor you go to jail and you figure it out on your own. That’s got to stop.”
Activist Reverend U.A. Thompson said he believes that if police will not arrest the driver, they should not arrest anyone.
Thompson said he and 10 others sat down with Tanner’s Big Orange owner John Zeller where they accepted his apology.
Wilson said the Black Lives Matter group will cover legal costs for Brand and the second suspect.
