One prosecutor said in a statement that the McMichaels were within their rights to make a citizens arrest and called the shooting justified. There were also conflicts of interest within the police department, since Gregory McMichaels was a 20-year veteran of the force.

The GBI is looking into allegations of misconduct by Brunswick Judicial Circuit District Attorney Jackie Johnson, who recused herself from the case because McMichaels had worked in her office.

The current prosecutor, Joyette Holmes, Cobb County District Attorney, said in a press statement, “We will continue to be intentional in the pursuit of justice for this family and the community at large as the prosecution of this case continues.”

Vigilante or witness?

The Arbery family, who released a statement through their attorney, believes everyone involved in the shooting of Ahmaud should be held accountable. While Bryan’s attorney’s assert that he was only ever a witness to the shooting and did not participate in the shooting itself.