Michigan AG, Police Call For Safety If Capitol Protests Occur

MICHIGAN — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Michigan State Police Col. Joe Gasper are calling for safety at protests expected to take place at the state capitol Thursday.

“We are in unprecedented times which have called for significant measures to protect the health and safety of Michigan residents," Nessel said. "I vehemently support the First Amendment right to protest government actions at the capitol or elsewhere around the state; however, any such activity must be done in a manner that is safe and lawful.

"The presence of heavily armed protesters at the Capitol unnecessarily creates a powder keg dynamic that is dangerous to protesters, law enforcement and public servants reporting to work at the Capitol," Nessel continued. "My office will work in coordination with local authorities and the Michigan State Police to uphold our commitment to public safety.”

During recent events at the Capitol, some residents carried firearms in protest of Michigan’s Stay Home, Stay Safe executive order, leading some legislators and other employees working at the Capitol to express that they were concerned for their well being.

“We’re asking the public to partner with us to ensure the Capitol remains a safe forum for everyone,” said Col. Joe Gasper, director of the Michigan State Police. “While our desire is to interfere as little as possible in demonstrations, we will not allow unlawful, threatening or intimidating behavior. Based on safety concerns expressed following previous demonstrations, attendees can expect to see an increased MSP presence on Thursday.”

Under Michigan law, possession of an openly carried firearm coupled with an intention to create fear in another person could subject an individual to criminal prosecution for brandishing a firearm. If a person refuses to obey a lawful directive from a law enforcement officer, that person could be arrested for resisting and obstructing.

Authorities are hoping protesters exercise their rights in safety and that lawmakers and their staff can work without being threatened, the AG said in a news release. Protesters unable to adhere to the rule of law and who behave in a threatening and unlawful manner can expect to be held accountable in our courts, the AG's office said.