Dallas County judge slams ‘interlopers’ for hijacking message from peaceful protesters
Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins called out looters and vandals who have tried to hijack the message from peaceful protesters downtown.
“Interlopers masquerading as patriotic protesters, smashing windows, and committing acts of vandalism and looting, are among the most effective voices in stopping that radical transformation to a new normal from happening as they sew fear of violence or crime into large segments of the population,” Jenkins said in a release.
“Protests and First Amendment free speech are within the cornerstone of what makes America the greatest country on Earth,” said Jenkins, who was on the streets of downtown Dallas monitoring events Monday.
“We must move towards a more just society where policing practices are radically improved and violence against black residents is dramatically decreased.”
There have been peaceful protests in cities all over the country for days since George Floyd was killed while in Minneapolis police custody. Those protests, however, have often segued into acts of vandalism and looting. In many instances — some would argue most — the property destruction and looting has been by other actors, not the ones peacefully protesting.
Jenkins decried some of the responses by law enforcement across the country who have used military-style tactics to quell protesters. President Donald Trump is even threatening to use the military to “dominate” the streets to restore order.
“Government must listen to the voices of its residents and protect the right to peacefully protest and free speech without a militaristic response,” Jenkins said. “We must also ensure that looting and vandalism is not allowed to occur.”
Jenkins also urged those joining the protests to wear face masks and try to social distance with the coronavirus pandemic still a threat.
“These are trying times, both with COVID-19 and with the unrest after the murder of George Floyd. We will do our best by remaining calm, and compassionate towards one another and keeping our ears open so that there is an understanding of your fellow person’s point of view,” he said. “North Texas is home to some of the most welcoming and kind people anywhere in the world and we need that on display at this time of extreme tension and uncertainty in our country and in our community.”
