Amarillo Police Aware of Protests Scheduled in Coming Days
On Saturday evening May 30, Amarillo Police Department posted on their Facebook page their awareness of the upcoming protests in the area.
Protests have erupted in major cities across the United States after George Floyd, 46, died after police officer Derek Chauvin pressed his knee to the back of Floyd's throat despite Floyd's repeated pleas for the officer to stop. The officer has been arrested and charged with Murder.
Amarillo Police Department have announced on their Facebook page that they,
"fully support the constitutionally protected right for people to peacefully assemble. Our officers will stand guard to protect your right to speak your voice in protest. If needed, we will walk with you to keep you safe and to keep our city safe. Please beware of individuals who might try to interrupt your rights with violence or destruction. Persons who damage property or assault anyone will not be tolerated and will be removed from the area and arrested."
Also in the Post Amarillo Chief of Police made a statement,
"The Amarillo Police Department has a culture of ethical policing. Intentional mistreatment of any person has not and will not be tolerated. The incomprehensible actions of a small number of officers who violate our ethics do not represent the vast majority of police officers who do excellent work every day. We have a wonderful community in Amarillo and our police officers will continue to uphold our core values and take good care of the people that we proudly serve.
Thank you for helping us keep Amarillo a safe place for all to live, work, and play."
Protests for Black Lives Matter are scheduled to start at 10 am Sunday, May 30. Protestors will peacefully walk from City Hall to 6th Street.