Mayor Sarno states, “In the last 48 hours, besides planning for a peaceful protest march in our downtown and police headquarter area, we have been informed that there will be another protest march sponsored by City Council President Justin Hurst and City Councilor Tracye Whitfield in the East Forest Park area of our city. This presents additional logistical challenges. Now we plan to use personnel and resources in two areas of our city. I again respectfully ask all marchers to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.”
“Again, Commissioner Cheryl Clapprood and I are appalled at the atrocious killing of Mr. George Floyd. Justice must be served,” Mayor Sarno continued. “As was evident with this past Wednesday’s protest march, we will be prepared for all parts of our city. While I hope and pray that these continued multiple marches are peaceful, my responsibility and duty is always to not only keep the peaceful protestors safe and sound but also just as important, our residents, businesses, police and public safety officials safe and sound too. We must respect the true message of Mr. George Floyd’s legacy of hope and change – not destruction.”
“Commissioner Clapprood and I will once again work with Governor Charlie Baker, State Police Major Michael Habel, Major General George Keefe of the Massachusetts National Guard, Sheriff Nick Cocchi, and all other local, state and federal public safety officials as well as community officials to keep our Springfield safe,” Mayor Sarno added.