Rochester Mayor Malik Evans and Interim Police Chief David Smith on Tuesday announced new police policies for handling demonstrations, saying they will ensure citizens’ right to fairly and safely exercise their First Amendment right to protest.
The new rules were developed in the wake of the controversial 2020 protests over the deaths of Daniel Prude and George Floyd. The ban the use of tear gas, flash bang grenades, Long Range Acoustical Devices and “kettling.” That’s a police tactic in which large ranks of officers converge from multiple sides on protesters and confine them.
Other provisions include:
· Mandatory wearing of body-worn cameras by police officers while at assemblies.
· Officers will not tape over their badges. If a determination is made by the Police Chief that Officers may remove their name badges to protect their safety, Officers will wear a clearly identifiable, unique number assigned to them that will be prominently displayed at all times.
· Significant limitations are imposed on use of pepper balls. Any use of pepper balls must be authorized by a high ranking official and they may not be used to clear an area during a peaceful event.
· Use of K-9 officers are prohibited at protests and mass gatherings.
· The City’s Corporation Counsel will be included in all planning discussions for protests and mass gatherings and will be present with RPD command staff during an event.
· Language added to the Police Department’s eviction protocol clarifies the right to protest and to take video at the scene. The policy specifically prohibits the arrest of protesters at evictions unless they physically interfere with officers.
Mayor Evans said the right of people to peacefully assemble is not debatable. He says the city wants to ensure this can take place in a manner safe for both protesters and police.