APD Prepares for Chauvin Verdict
Local and state law enforcement agencies are preparing for the unknown after peaceful protests downtown in Olympic Centennial Park after George Floyd’s death last year turned violent and destructive.
The Atlanta Police Department (APD) announced Monday that they are coordinating with the Georgia National Guard and other law enforcement agencies to be prepared as a verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial is expected to be announced this week.
During the press conference, Rodney Bryant, Atlanta Interim Police Chief, admitted APD did not collaborate quickly with their law enforcement partners last year. Now, the department has activated the joint operations center to ensure a speedy response to any unrest. Bryant added, “We support peaceful protests, but we should not tolerate people coming in to vandalize our city and encroach upon our citizens.” He also shared that currently, there are no indications of any threats or serious concerns related to the Chauvin trial verdict.
Governor Brian Kemp has extended an executive order from last year that authorized the deployment of up to 1,000 National Guard troops to support local law enforcement.