The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department says it's been meeting with local groups on how to better respond to protests in the community.
During the last few weeks, Metro says it's leaders have been engaged in dialogue with representatives from groups that include but are not limited to, the ACLUNV, Black Lives Matter, National Lawyers Guild, PLAN, The Clark County Public Defender’s Office, The Clark County Board of Commissioners, The Attorney General’s Office, The Las Vegas City Council, and State Lawmakers. During these meetings, questions have been asked regarding LVMPD’s role and response to protests.
Based on feedback from those community partners, The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reviewed and revised response protocols to include the following.
• LVMPD will attempt to communicate with legal observers prior to protests to establish a designated liaison. Requested information regarding arrests and police action will be communicated with the liaison when possible to reduce potential conflict.
• If a protest becomes violent or illegal activity occurs and a dispersal order is given, officers will attempt to give the dispersal order from multiple directions to ensure it is easier for protestors to hear the order.
• If a dispersal order is given, officers will communicate a clear path for protestors to leave the area to avoid confusion and conflict.