Dear editor,
This is to encourage the leaders of Black Lives Matter protest marches to work with their local police department to identify and prosecute any protesters who choose to engage in violent actions
I suggest that six of the leaders meet with the police before the street march, and outline how to handle any violent actions.
Have police cars stationed at strategic locations just off the route, and call them the moment you see any violent activity occurring. Then have those marching move to the sides of the street to allow the police fast entry.
Take videos of those engaging in violence, to share with the police and point out their location when the police arrive.
As soon as the police apprehend and remove the perpetrator, and leave the area, marchers move back onto the street to complete their protest march.
Let these actions send this message: We will help you take care of the few violent bad apples in our group, and we are asking you take care of the few bad apples in the police department.
Stopping the violence could stop Trump from sending federal troops in to incite further violence.
Before the march starts, instruct those in the crowd what you intend to do, and what they need to do to help out.
If violence starts, you will speak on a bullhorn to move to the sides of the street. Take videos of those engaging in destructive activities, and help point them out when the police arrive. Share your videos, for the police to use as evidence. Crowd around a perpetrator to help pen him in so the police can get to him. Then thank the police for their help.
Sincerely,
Joe Hess,
Iola, Kan.
