U.S. Attorney Richard Callahan has issued a statement regarding the nearly sixty arrests that took place during a #MoralMonday protest outside the Thomas Eagleton Federal Courthouse this afternoon.
“Fifty seven protestors were arrested this afternoon for obstructing the normal use of the entrances to the Thomas Eagleton Federal Courthouse,” U.S. Attorney Richard Callahan said in a statement.
After direct action training, about 400 protesters marched to the building where they conducted an “anointing” ceremony – where hands were laid on the building an each other in the name of reclaiming it for sacred justice.
Clergy then presented a proclamation/list of demands that focused on an overhaul of the justice system that they said was separate and unequal in its treatment of people of color.
“We who believe in freedom shall not rest until it comes,” the group sang, led by Rev. Traci Blackmon.
Following the reading of the demands, the group split.
Those who were willing to be arrested stood on the other side of the barricades set up in front of the steps of the Eagleton building in anticipation of the protesters arrival.
They sat down, and slowly inched closer to the front doors before federal officers gave a two-minute warning that they must disperse or face arrest.
They locked arms and moved quickly to the front doors and sat– being cheered on by those who accompanied them.
Soon after St. Louis City Police, including Chief Sam Dotson arrived on the scene. Arrest began in a matter of minutes as officers grabbed seated protesters from their arms and began to zip tie them in groups of eight or so at a time.
“The arrested subjects are being processed as quickly as can administratively be accomplished by the United States Marshal Service and are being released on a summons,” Callahan said.
He characterized the protest as otherwise peaceful and nonviolent.
Dr. Cornel West, Rev. Sekou, Rev. Renita Lampkin, Rev. Starsky Wilson, Johnetta Elize, DeRay McKesson, Kayla Reed and Damon Davis were some notable faces from Ferguson taken into custody.
Ryan Reilly of the Huffington Post said via twitter that an officer outside U.S. District Court says protesters arrested likely facing federal misdemeanor trespassing charges
“Spokeswoman for U.S. Attorney’s Office tells me they’ll get a court date and face a fine of around $125,” Reilly tweeted.
