The ACLU has filed suit against the city of St. Louis for “unlawful and unconstitutional” actions during protests of the Jason Stockley verdict.
The lawsuit, announced in a press release, centers on the use of chemical weapons, interference with people filming police activity and violation of due process during a “kettling” incident downtown on Sunday.
“To create long-term change, we must address the problems of policing and racial disparities collaboratively,” the press release said. “Law enforcement officers, community members, experts, advocates, and elected officials must come together to create sustainable solutions. We must foster understanding and trust.”
More than 100 people, including a Post-Dispatch reporter assigned to cover the protest, were arrested Sunday night . The arrests were made when police used a “kettling” process, blocking protesters from all sides.
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Reporter Mike Faulk has said he was on the ground and his hands were bound with zip ties when an officer held his head down with his foot and then an officer sprayed him in the face with a chemical.
The lawsuit says protesters had been ordered to disperse 45 minutes earlier and away from the location of the kettling. Then police allowed protesters and others into the area.
“Without further instruction or warning, or any instruction or warning at all at the intersection, police officers surrounded protestors, observers, and members of the press, cutting off all routes of egress — including via any sidewalk — and prohibiting the people trapped inside from leaving,” the lawsuit says.
Police officers then used chemical agents without warning on those caught in the area .
Police removed goggles some people were wearing “ then sprayed those individuals directly in the face,” the suit says.
The lawsuit also says police have ordered people to delete photos and videos from their phones and cameras.
The plaintiffs want a court order requiring that the city order protesters to disperse “in a constitutional manner” and follow the Constitution in how police act at protests.
Named plaintiffs are Maleeha Ahmad and Alison Dreith, both residents of St. Louis.
“We look forward to appearing in court with the plaintiffs and thrashing out the issues presented,” said St. Louis city counselor Julian Bush in a statement provided to the Post-Dispatch. “We are confident that proceedings will result in a just disposition that will protect the safety, persons and property of all.”