JC Police Attack BLM Protestors on First Day of Black History Month
On the day of Tyre Nichols’ funeral and the first day of Black History Month, police in the Southern Tier clashed with protestors at Wegmans.
What began as a simple gathering at a local shopping plaza quickly descended into chaos as attendees were confronted by a battalion of law enforcement officers from at least four regional departments.
Those who had gathered were there to draw attention to a recent incident of police brutality in Binghamton, and several high profile police killings that occurred during the month of January — including the beating and murder of Tyre Nichols.
Nichols, 29, died January 10th after sustaining what can only be described as a ‘mob style’ beating from a half dozen Memphis Police officers known as the “Scorpion Unit.” Five of the officers involved were eventually charged with murder following public outcry.
Wednesday, as protestors gathered outside the store they were quickly met with hostility from the large group of Johnson City Police and police from neighboring municipalities. Several minutes into the demonstration, the group—including students and elderly—were pepper sprayed and arrested.
A standing army of roughly 100 officers were on the scene within minutes—including dogs from the K9 unit. At least 14 attendees were arrested; among them was former Mayor Matt Ryan and at least one Binghamton University professor. Multiple members of the press were also arrested and/or pepper sprayed by law enforcement.
All were released and charged with minor offenses, including trespassing and resisting arrest.
Wegmans closed five hours early and did not re-open as of Wednesday night.
In response, residents are encouraged to donate to legal funds and follow for upcoming actions to support the arrested protestors.
This story is developing.