September 22, 2020
Louisville Police Chief Declares State Of Emergency In Anticipation Of Breonna Taylor Case Ruling
In anticipation of a ruling in the police shooting death of Breonna Taylor, the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) has ordered a state of emergency ahead of the announcement, according to Fox News.
Police in Louisville, Kentucky, are starting to restrict access to the downtown area in preparation for the state attorney general’s announcement about whether he will charge officers in Breonna Taylor’s shooting death.
Police have said they would place barricades around Jefferson Square Park, where there have been many protests, and also the perimeter of the downtown area. They will allow only pedestrians in the blocks immediately surrounding Jefferson Square Park, restrict vehicle traffic in other areas of downtown, and limit access to parking garages.
“While we do not know when the Attorney General will make his announcement, LMPD is taking the following actions now to ensure the area is as safe as possible for those coming downtown to express their First Amendment Rights, as well as those who live and work in the area,” the Louisville Metro Police Department said Tuesday in a statement.
Attention: Anyone with upcoming business downtown #LMPD pic.twitter.com/FL37wjGpBj
— LMPD (@LMPD) September 22, 2020
The Mayor of Louisville Greg Fischer also posted this to his Twitter account.
We do not know when the @kyoag will make an announcement, or what it will be. Our goal with these steps is ensuring space and opportunity for potential protesters to gather and express their First Amendment rights, & to prepare for any eventuality to keep everyone safe. https://t.co/S2LlFWgL0A
— Mayor Greg Fischer (@louisvillemayor) September 22, 2020
Also effective immediately, the police department also canceled all off days and all vacation requests not already approved and submitted until further notice, according to a separate memo issued by LMPD Sgt. Lamont Washington to all personnel.
Earlier today, the LMPD issued this Tweet.
REGARDING VEHICULAR TRAFFIC
For legitimate business notify an officer at any of these locations:
INTO downtown
2nd and Jefferson
9th and Chestnut
8th and Market
7th and Broadway
OUT of downtown, go to:
9th and Jefferson
2nd and Chestnut
3rd and Market
4th and Broadway pic.twitter.com/kZgeV3Htok— LMPD (@LMPD) September 22, 2020