x
Breaking News
More () »

'Stop the dangerous behavior' LMPD issues warning to protesters, plan to beef up patrol officers

Police shared video captured by the department's helicopter and closed-circuit TV of drivers, protesters they say are participating in dangerous behavior.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Thursday, Louisville Metro Police had an impromptu news conference with a message to protesters to stop doing dangerous things while protesting. 

On the media briefing, officers were specifically targeting protesters who are riding on top of cars, lying in roadways and drivers who are doing doughnuts or driving on sidewalks. LMPD says this behavior has increased over the past couple of weeks.

Video from LMPD's helicopter and closed-circuit TV was shown to showcase examples of what they called dangerous behavior and a disregard for traffic laws. 

Officers said Metrosafe is receiving complaints from neighbors and some protesters themselves concerned for their safety and other protesters.

"We understand your rights to protest, but we want you to be safe, " LMPD said.

Effective immediately, LMPD announced they are adding additional officers during protests to keep an eye out for drivers violating traffic laws and dangerous behavior by protesters overall. 

LMPD says their goal is to keep everyone safe and not to interfere with anyone's right to protest and demonstrate.

More on WHAS11 News

RELATED: Lawyers volunteer to represent protesters pro bono

RELATED: Here's what defunding police means, how it would impact Louisville

RELATED: Louisville leaders want more black officers on the police force, more accountability

RELATED: Woman evicted after allegedly throwing ice on protesters

Before You Leave, Check This Out