‘No Kings’ day: Louisiana AG says protest peacefully or face criminal prosecution

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Protesters will take to the streets across the nation in opposition to the Trump Administration’s policies. At the same time, President Trump prepares to celebrate his 79th birthday, the Army’s 250th anniversary, and Flag Day with a first-of-its-kind military parade through Washington, D.C.

State and local law enforcement are on alert as the events unfold in downtown Los Angeles. Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered the deployment of 5,000 National Guard troops across the state to manage protests. Louisiana has not announced guard deployment, but Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill had a message for those who choose to engage in demonstrations planned across the state.

“The First Amendment guarantees the right to peacefully assemble and petition the government – it does not protect anarchy, vandalism, or rioting. This isn’t California. I’ll defend constitutionally-protected activity, but I’ll prosecute criminal actions.” – AG Murrill

AG Murrill

The Shreveport Police Department is aware of the “No Kings” protest planned to take place downtown and stated that they do not anticipate violence, but are prepared should the events of the day take a turn.

“We have no reason to believe that that’s going to occur this weekend, but if it should begin, our officers will be ready and will take action. There is no circumstance in which damaging property or hurting individuals or hurting police officers is acceptable to the Shreveport Police Department; however, we don’t believe that is going to be the case,” Corporal Chris Bordelon said.

In a statement announcing the protest, the Shreveport DSA, the event’s organizer, said, “A core principle behind all NO KINGS events is a commitment to nonviolent action,” and asks that even legally permitted firearms not be brought to the event.

The “No Kings” protest is scheduled from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. outside the Caddo Parish Courthouse, located at 501 Texas Street in downtown Shreveport. The chapter will host a public meeting to discuss upcoming projects from noon until 2 p.m. at Caddo Common Park.