In the midst of civil unrest and protests against law enforcement officers nationwide, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is stepping up and voicing his support for law enforcement in their efforts to protect the public from violence spurred by anarchists attempting to hijack peaceful protests.
Marshall’s comments follow Wednesday news reports that the Huntsville Police Department used tear gas that evening to disperse a crowd of protesters. Given the infrequency with which this tool is employed, Marshall believed it was his duty to examine what necessitated its use.
“The appropriateness of police actions must always be judged by the circumstances in which they occur,” explained Marshall. “After talking with the Huntsville Police Department and the Madison County Sheriff’s Department, I am well-satisfied that the actions taken by police were reasonable under the circumstances.”
He concluded, “Alabama is fortunate in that most protests taking place in recent days have been conducted peacefully. At the same time, over the last 10 days—and even as we speak—law enforcement intelligence from around our state indicates the intent of some to infiltrate protests with violence, property damage, and targeting of law enforcement officers.”
The AG’s office was quick to remind those taking actions against law enforcement that the Yellowhammer State has a zero-tolerance for aggressive acts against law enforcement, and that taking the life of a law enforcement officer carries the penalty of death in the state. Further, attempting to take the life of a law enforcement officer will guarantee prolonged incarceration of up to 99 years.
