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DeRay McKesson Back In Baltimore After Baton Rouge Arrest

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A local activist who gained national attention is back in Baltimore after getting arrested in Louisiana. Some are questioning DeRay McKesson's actions, especially now that he's a top executive in Baltimore City's public schools.

Ava-joye Burnett spoke with the activist tonight.

McKesson said his activism and job with city school are not a conflict of interest and that both roles are equally important.

McKesson was arrested Saturday in Baton Rouge and the arrest was captured on a live video feed. He was one of hundreds protesting after police shot and killed Alton Sterling. McKesson says his arrest was unlawful and he was back at his day job with Baltimore City schools Tuesday---but not without controversy.

Some are saying his activism doesn't mix well with his role as a school official. This is what he has to say to critics:

"My commitment to kids is unwavering and my commitment to social justice is unwavering and those commitments are not in conflict," he said.

Just last month, McKesson was appointed Interim Human Capital Officer for Baltimore City schools. The school system stressed that McKesson was acting as a private citizen when he was arrested, saying, "Mr. McKesson has brought his expertise, professionalism and commitment to supporting City Schools' employees and to the critical work of ensuring that all district schools are fully staffed when the school year begins on August 29. We expect that work to continue under Mr. McKesson's leadership and anticipate his return to the district office on July 12."

McKesson would not answer a direct question on if he will continue to protest but he did say:

"This work is really complicated and the work of social justice is important and I made a commitment to it like so many people across the country and my commitment is consistent."

McKesson's charge was a misdemeanor. He was released from jail the day after his arrest.

McKesson was one of 200 people arrested in Baton Rouge this past weekend. He was charged with simple obstruction of a highway of commerce.

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