Glynn County

Brunswick law enforcement prepares for demonstrations during Arbery murder trial

GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. — Glynn and Brunswick law enforcement agencies have established a unified command to respond to the Ahmaud Arbery murder trial. They’ve been meeting since July to plan.

Court officials have summoned 1,000 jurors for jury selection, which starts Monday.

While the judge prepares for the trial in court, law enforcement officials are preparing for demonstrations outside of court.

Glynn County Police Chief Jeremiah Bergquist confirmed two permits have been requested for demonstrations from local organizations during the trial.

He said Unified Command’s role is to support peaceful demonstrations and support neighbors’ rights during the high-profile trial.

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”We encourage you to use your voices in hopes of redefining what is justice and accountability,” Mayor Cornell Harvey said. “Rest assured that [police] are there to protect your right to assemble without fear or violence.

”Parents, business owners, and residents gathered at the Brunswick Library Thursday to voice concerns and ask questions.

School was discussed and officials said they are considering letting students out early on the day of the verdict or moving to virtual school. However, nothing is set in stone.

Law enforcement said they are also looking at possible road and public building closures.

Unified Command representatives said the situation is fluid. Information on updates can be found at www.glynnunifiedcommand.com.