I couldn't read the NY Times article for myself without a subscription, but it sounds like only his sister is distancing herself, while the mother is pledging her "unwavering support." I know a black police officer who explained that the likely result of going against your superior in a situation like Kueng's is losing your job and possibly your whole career. Kueng may have been weighing that in his mind, and at the same time he was trusting someone with many more years experience on the force. I think he'll be cleared.