Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels released a statement regarding the upcoming weekend in Spokane, which will see the Pride Parade, No Kings protest and Jesus Fest all taking place on Saturday.
“The Greater Spokane area is approaching a very busy weekend starting tomorrow. We have many diverse groups planning several different celebrations and demonstrations. A few of these celebrations and demonstrations may even be in direct conflict with each other’s political viewpoints,” Sheriff Nowels stated. “I love that we, as Americans, have the right to celebrate or demonstrate against each other’s ideals openly.”
“However, I would like to remind everyone that their individual rights do NOT grant them the ability to infringe upon the rights of others or disturb the public peace,” Nowels continued. “Local law enforcement agencies are prepared to respond to unlawful activity if it arises, but we very much hope that we will not be needed. As your Sheriff, I ask that if you plan to protest or counter-protest, you do so within the bounds of law.”
Sheriff’s Nowels’ statement reflected the tensions lingering after Wednesday’s ICE protests in downtown Spokane.
“If, for some reason, people begin violating the law, please follow the directives and orders issued by law enforcement. Failing to do so could lead to your arrest. I want to be clear: if an unlawful assembly is declared and a dispersal order given, it is a crime for anyone to remain in the area,” Nowels said.
Sheriff Nowels issued a warning to the public that officers of the Sheriff’s Office would be deploying any force that is lawful and deemed necessary to restore peace and enforce the law on any violators. On Wednesday, police deployed the use of foam projectiles and bean bags in response to “assaultive” protestors.
After this warning, Nowels ended his statement with a more positive sentiment.
“I hope we all have a safe weekend of celebrating Flag Day, Father’s Day, and Pride. For those groups who want to express their opposition or support of political viewpoints and actions, there is room here for all of us,” Nowells stated. “Let’s make sure the Spokane area is the example to the rest of the country on how diverse people and viewpoints can peacefully coexist.”
