DNC security rules trigger free speech worries

AP ^ | 9/1/2012 | MICHAEL BIESECKER and MITCH WEISS

[markomalley]

Starting Saturday, someone walking through Charlotte's central business district could run afoul of the law by carrying water bottles, hair spray, socks or magic markers under sweeping security rules enacted ahead of the Democratic National Convention.

It would take a particularly strict reading of the rules for someone to be arrested simply for possessing one of those items, but the possibility exists — which worries protesters and free speech advocates. They fear authorities could trample on people's constitutional rights in the name of protecting public safety.

The changes to city ordinances adopted earlier this year for "extraordinary events" ban a long list of actions and items that would otherwise be legal from a more than 100-square-block zone. The area includes spots as much as a mile from the sports venues where the Democratic Party events are to be held.

The new rules have already been used for events before the convention and will remain on the books after it's over.

[submarinerswife]

saving for a later read

[moovova]

So..can we still defecate on police vehicles?

Or, do we have to have an enema before heading downtown for the festivities?

[trebb]

They know the treachery their supporters are capable of - some of the most dangerous people on the planet are “peace-loving” Dims...

[backwoods-engineer]

In North Carolina, my right to keep and bear arms is protected. I have the right to carry my pistol concealed in the city of Charlotte, as I have done many times.

What gives the Dhimmicrats the power to proscribe my rights in a 100-square-block area?

I doubt I could stand the stench from the unwashed hippies, though, so I think I'll stay out of Charlotte for the duration.