United States Attorney’s Office Statement on Upcoming Protests

PHILADELPHIA – Ahead of planned protests in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the United States Attorney’s Office will uphold the central principles of freedom of expression and the rule of law.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office has been in communication with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to offer our support, and our assurance that violations of federal law, to include inciting a riot, engaging in civil disorder, destroying federal property, assaulting police and federal personnel, or unlawful possession of firearms, will be met with federal charges.

“The guarantees of the First Amendment end at the point of violence against persons or property,” said United States Attorney David Metcalf. “Those who cross that line against any federal officers or facilities in upcoming protests should expect arrest and prosecution. The Department of Justice is committed, as always, to working with our partners at all levels to uphold public safety, including the safety of law enforcement officers.”