WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS: Protestors Criticize Police after Arrests

Protestors Criticize Police after Arrests

By Andrew Hasbun
andrew@wlbt.net

Nine protesters were arrested Monday during abortion rallies throughout Jackson.  Both sides are now criticizing the Jackson Police Department's tactics.

Outside the state's only abortion clinic, pro-life demonstrators were taken away by police.  All were placed on school busses.

"I'm going on the bus because the city of Jackson is infringing on my first amendment right to assemble," said Tanya Britton, a pro-life demonstrator and Jackson resident.

All morning, demonstrators were hauled off. Police say they disobeyed their permit by carrying signs where they're not supposed to.

The protesters have permission to demonstrate on the sidewalk in front of the Jackson Women's Health Organization on State St.  Police claim protestors break the rules once they cross the street.

When asked what happens when a protestor demonstrated somewhere without a permit, Police Chief Shirlene Anderson said, "they will be asked to leave and, if they don't leave, they will be put on that bus."

"We go out all over the country and do this.  We come to Jackson and, all of a sudden, we are the criminals," said Rev. Flip Benham of Operation Save America.

Police gave the same treatment to pro-choice demonstrators who set up near a pro-life rally at the capitol.  

"But right now we are being told that the people of Jackson cannot walk down a sidewalk holding a sign or the person will be arrested," said Brent Cox of the American Civil Liberties Union.

The signs are not welcome at Rooster's restaurant, across the street from the clinic. Curtains are now in place to block the view in and out.

"It's just not appetizing. You don't want to look over there and see bloody pictures as you are trying to eat a hamburger," said Nathan Glenn, Rooster's Owner.

In the coming days, more rallies are planned, and police don't expect to change their policies.