The New York City Police Department (NYPD) issued a stern warning to known looters and agitators ahead of Election Day, with a top official saying those who would seek to hijack potential peaceful protests in the wake of the election would be met with a tough police response.
“There is certainly no shortage of coverage for this year’s election. Some of it may seem concerning to New Yorkers but make no mistake, the NYPD will be out ensuring the safety of all people and property,” Monahan said. “We have thousands of additional cops at the ready.”
“The NYPD is fully prepared to protect every person’s right to vote on Election Day,” he said, adding, “So please, feel safe while you cast your ballot.”
Calling the outbreak of looting and property damage that took place in New York City in the context of George Floyd protests “a once in a lifetime occurrence in the city,” Monahan warned known looters and rioters that authorities would be keeping a watchful eye.
“Our intel has gotten a lot better. Our responses to getting cops out to the scene has gotten a lot better,” he said. “We’ve identified those who are willing to cause damage and destruction, and we will be on them. We know who they are.”
With memories of widespread looting and property damage amid protests this summer still fresh, many businesses in New York City have taken extra precautions ahead of Election Day, boarding up windows and storefronts. Police had warned businesses in protest hotspots to take extra precautions ahead of Tuesday’s vote.
Monahan then addressed “regular, peaceful protesters out there,” and urged them to be watchful of activity that spirals into violence or property damage.
“When you see those who are trying to turn your protest into something that it was not meant to be—turn it into violence—that’s time for you to police your own people,” he said. “Tell them that they are not going to take over your movement, that they are not going to be the voice out there.”
“If anything should ever start to turn ugly, if something started to get thrown, that’s a time to leave when you’re a peaceful protester. Separate yourself from those who are willing to cause destruction and damage. We'll take care of them,” he said.
