Politics & Government
Westport Police Tells Protesters They Stand With Them
The department thanked protesters for marching peacefully through town.
WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Police Department, which worked with protesters this week to peacefully hold justice for George Floyd demonstrations, thanked the marchers and said their voices were heard.
In a statement Tuesday, the department urged future protesters avoid violence, because it could erase the message.
"There is no greater instrument of peace than a continued dialogue, do not let your message be lost in violence," officials said, referring to some protests around the country that have devolved into violence, property damage and looting.
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Tuesday's statement follows similar ones made by Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe and Police Chief Foti Koskinas, and Interim Schools Superintendent David Abbey and Board of Education Chair Candice Savin.
Below is the Westport Police Department's Tuesday statement:
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Over the last several days the town of Westport has been the site of demonstrations in response to recent tragic events in our country. The men and women of this department are sincerely grateful that to date these have been peaceful and constructive gatherings. To the public we serve, we offer a sincere thank you for your continued engagement in your community and your commitment to making our world a better place for us all. In that goal, we have and will always continue to proudly stand with you.
Sadly, this has not been the case throughout this country, where violent acts and destruction instead has become on all too common sight in many of our neighborhoods. The Westport Police Department will always support, and work diligently to protect, the First Amendment rights of our citizens and visitors alike. As we anticipate additional future demonstrations to happen here in and our neighboring communities, we ask that you please do your part to help us ensure the safety and voice of all those in attendance. There is no greater instrument of peace than a continued dialogue, do not let your message be lost in violence.
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