Videos have surfaced showing law enforcement in Minneapolis using paint rounds against residents on their own properties. Over the weekend, protests erupted nationwide in response to the tragic death of George Floyd, with individuals uniting to highlight issues of racial injustice and police brutality. As tensions escalated and peaceful protests devolved into violence, state officials called in the National Guard. The impact of their presence remains under scrutiny, as a viral video demonstrates National Guard members running through a quiet neighborhood in Minneapolis, targeting bystanders on their porches with paint rounds.
“Spread the word: National Guard and police are sweeping our street, firing paint canisters at us while we stand on our front porch. They yelled ‘light ’em up,’” shared local resident, Lisa Anderson, alongside the footage. This incident occurred in the Whittier area, close to the site of Floyd’s death at the hands of former officer Derek Chauvin. While some on social media claimed the residents deserved the attack for allegedly disregarding curfews, the Minneapolis curfew was set for 8 p.m., and the video was posted at 7:37 p.m., with individuals merely standing on their own property.
A journalist reporting on the protests was struck by a paint round, which resulted in severe injuries requiring surgery, jeopardizing her eyesight. “The police shot me, not the protesters,” she tweeted after the incident. “It was the protesters who rushed me to the hospital and provided medical assistance when I couldn’t see through the blood and swelling.”
Cities like Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and Atlanta have sought National Guard support to manage the unrest, yet one anonymous Minnesota Guard member expressed concerns, stating, “We’re a combat unit, not trained for riot control or civilian safety. Many soldiers are worried about causing harm, and leaders fear liability issues.” This raises critical questions about the effectiveness of military presence in communities facing civil unrest.
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Conclusion
In summary, the use of paint rounds by police and the National Guard against Minneapolis residents raises serious questions about the appropriateness of such tactics during civil unrest. The incident underscores the need for a critical evaluation of law enforcement strategies in community situations.
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