The Nassau County Police Department and Nassau County Executive Laura Curran have issued the following joint statement in light of the arrest of 11 protesters in Merrick – who were part of a larger group who were protesting the death of George Floyd last month – on Saturday, June 6:
County Executive Laura Curran and Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder would like to advise the public that after five days of peaceful protests in Nassau County with no arrests, today it became necessary for police to arrest 11 protesters (10 adults for disorderly conduct as well as 1 juvenile). For the demonstrator’s safety, Police repeatedly made attempts to keep protesters off the Meadowbrook Parkway. This safety precaution was met with strong opposition and resistance which resulted in the arrests of these subjects. Additionally, two police officers were injured.
Nassau County Police Officers are highly trained professionals and for days at multiple demonstrations, had positively engaged with protesters at all events, even during some tense moments.
Our Police Officers take an oath to protect and serve and they have done that admirably. We have and continue to protect the public which includes protesters, during marches, on major roadways and during their interaction with counter protesters.
We continue to support the rights of individuals who exercise their freedom of speech according to the First Amendment; however, these demonstrations must remain safe and orderly. For the safety of protesters and motorists, the Meadowbrook and Southern State parkways in Nassau County are not available for marchers, pedestrians or bicyclists. The parkways will be patrolled by State Police.
We would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation during these troubling times.
