The mayor’s office of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, declared a state of emergency on Monday morning ahead of the release of body camera footage that shows the shooting of a 42-year-old black male by a police officer, suggesting the move is designed to preempt protests and riots. Mayor Bettie Parker stated that law enforcement expects a “period of civil unrest” following the release of the video showing the fatal shooting of Andrew Brown Jr. last week. Brown died following the execution of a search warrant on April 21, and witnesses have said that Brown was driving away from the scene at the time when deputies opened fire. The video is expected to be released to the public this week, officials have said. Reports have said that Brown’s family is slated to see the video footage first. Parker’s order will allow officials “to ensure the safety of our citizens and their …