WILMINGTON -- The Revolutionary Black Panther Party of Wilmington raised concerns among local officials this week when it announced its plans to host an "armed human rights march and armed freedom ride" Sunday in Wilmington.
Mayor Bill Saffo is concerned about attendees possibly being armed, but is confident Sunday's march will pass without incident.
"I don't think there's a reason to come armed to an event. ... If there's an altercation with somebody, in the heat of the moment a tragedy could happen," Saffo said, adding, "If you want to picket or you want to demonstrate in the City of Wilmington, it's your right to do that, but you're not allowed to bring a gun."
According to North Carolina general statue, it is unlawful for any person participating in, affiliated with, or present as a spectator at a parade, funeral procession, picket line or demonstration to “willfully or intentionally possess or have immediate access to any dangerous weapon.” Jim Varrone, the Wilmington Police Department's assistant chief, explained those laws to organizers, according to a police spokeswoman.
http://www.starnewsonline.com/news/20170125/black-panthers-planning-armed-march-in-wilmington
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This should be interesting!
Mayor Bill Saffo is concerned about attendees possibly being armed, but is confident Sunday's march will pass without incident.
"I don't think there's a reason to come armed to an event. ... If there's an altercation with somebody, in the heat of the moment a tragedy could happen," Saffo said, adding, "If you want to picket or you want to demonstrate in the City of Wilmington, it's your right to do that, but you're not allowed to bring a gun."
According to North Carolina general statue, it is unlawful for any person participating in, affiliated with, or present as a spectator at a parade, funeral procession, picket line or demonstration to “willfully or intentionally possess or have immediate access to any dangerous weapon.” Jim Varrone, the Wilmington Police Department's assistant chief, explained those laws to organizers, according to a police spokeswoman.
http://www.starnewsonline.com/news/20170125/black-panthers-planning-armed-march-in-wilmington
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This should be interesting!