Police department says upcoming protest unlawful

WARNER ROBINS — The Warner Robins Police Department is warning the public about an “unlawful assembly” set to take place Saturday, Feb. 22.

According to a flyer, the “Defend Your Rights” protest is scheduled to begin on Feb. 22 and continue every weekend until March 22. Protesters were advised to gather at At Home on Watson Boulevard.

The department stated that city code requires a permit for peaceful protests, which must be filed at least seven days but no more than 90 days before the event. No permits have been submitted or approved.

While police support the public’s right to free speech and peaceful assembly, they noted that the planned protest is on private property. Police said they have spoken with At Home, and the business has not granted permission for the protest.

Additionally, the department cited its responsibility to protect property, public safety, and public spaces.

Police said anyone participating in the protest would be in violation of Code Section 23-64 of the city’s municipal code, which states:

“It shall be a violation of this article for any person:

1. To stage, present, or conduct any event for which a permit is required by this article without first having obtained a permit;
2. To participate in an event which that person knows is required to have a permit under this article when that permit has not been issued; or
3. When the person is the permittee, or an agent or representative of a permittee, to knowingly fail to comply with any term of condition of the permit.”