Marching for justice: Residents prepare to stand against police brutality, killing of George Floyd.

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

Residents planning to march Tuesday to protest the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer will do so with local police officials right by their side.

“We had a two-hour meeting with the organizer and his friends (Monday) morning at City Hall,” Asst. Police Chief Jason Halsey told BTS News. “We want this to be a safe event while ensuring everyone’s constitutional rights.”

Halsey said he and Police Chief Dan Harris plan to take part in the march as a sign of solidarity.

The march will begin at 6 p.m. Tuesday at Optimist-Jaycee Park.

Several people are expected to speak first, then the group will march

down Harbin Street (south toward Tarleton State University) and turn around at Sloan Street to head back to the park.

Halsey said there will be a strong police presence and streets will be barricaded to prevent vehicular traffic.

Halsey said the department has received a few calls from local business owners concerned about the potential of damage.

“We understand the fear they have, but the organizer and our officers are committed to keeping this peaceful,” Halsey said.