Chicago’s top cop promises swift response if DNC demonstrations turn violent

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The head of the Chicago Police Department said his officers will act quickly if they see demonstrations around the Democratic National Convention (DNC) turning violent.

In a question-and-answer session at a City Club of Chicago luncheon, Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling made a sharp distinction between a protest, and a riot. He said his officers welcome protests and will even protect DNC demonstrators.

“As long as they’re cooperating with us, and there’s a collaborative effort where we understand each other, and you know where to draw the line,” Snelling said. “[If] you’re not breaking the law; you’re not destroying our city; you’re not committing acts of violence, then this will go off well. The moment that starts, we are going to intervene.”

Snelling says he won't wait for things to get out of hand and then try to pull them back in.

“A greater response now may mean that we need less of an even higher response later,” he said. “We will not allow people to come here and destroy this city.”

The city’s police officers are now well trained in handling demonstrations, he said, and Chicago has experience with events like this — so Chicago is ready.

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