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A state representative who helped organize a protest last week in Augusta urging the reopening of the state’s economy received a warning letter from city police for not following city ordinances.
WABI TV reports that Augusta Police Chief Jared Mills is asking protesters to work with the city and said his department is not looking to prevent people’s right to demonstrate.
A Patriots’ Day demonstration held outside the Blaine House had more than 200 people, which under city ordinance requires notification of police. Mills said the coordination is needed so police can set up roadblocks and make sure everyone is spaced out in an ideal location.
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Mills sent a letter to state Rep. Chris Johansen informing him the protest violated city rules. Mills said he is willing to work with organizers so they can protest while abiding by city ordinances.
“My fear is that people are misunderstanding that if they come out they’re going to get arrested by us for exercising their constitutional right, and that will never happen,” Mills said.