Chicago mayor says vigilantism won't be accepted after men spotted patrolling streets with bats
By Morgan Gstalter - 06/06/20 11:57 AM EDT
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot (D) this week condemned vigilantism after groups of predominately white men were seen patrolling the streets with bats amid ongoing protests against racism and police brutality.
“It is absolutely not appropriate for people to take up arms, bats, pipes, whatever in patrolling neighborhoods,†Lightfoot said, according to the Chicago Tribune.
“We’ve seen that end with tragic results across the country and we’re not about to allow that practice to happen here in Chicago. If there’s an issue, call 911,†Lightfoot said. “I absolutely support neighbors being vigilant as to what’s going on on the streets and in their blocks but taking up arms, that leads to chaos and we’re not supporting vigilantism in the city of Chicago under any circumstances.â€
The groups of men were seen in Bridgeport, a diversifying neighborhood that previously served as an Irish American power base for the Daley political family, the outlet noted.
more
https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/501470-chicago-mayor-says-vigilantism-wont-be-accepted-after-men-spotted