Updated

Missouri police have been buying new gear and getting trained on constitutional rights as they prepare for a grand jury decision on whether to charge a white policeman in the shooting death of a black 18-year-old.

A grand jury announcement could come within the next month, though no specific date is set.

Law enforcement officials are hoping to avoid violent clashes between protesters and police similar to those that occurred after Ferguson officer Darren Wilson shot Michael Brown on Aug. 9.

Police have adjusted tactics for interacting more peacefully with protesters while also honing procedures for quick, widespread arrests. They are planning to have a large contingent of officers ready, but also have been meeting with clergy, community leaders and students in hopes of building relationships that could ease tensions.