Members,

As you are likely already aware, there is a planned protest on the St. Louis University campus this evening.  We have seen some of these protests across the country evolve into illegal activity requiring police action and involvement. 

We want to remind our membership that one of the main goals of the agitators intertwined in these organized events is to incite police in an attempt to provoke a response that they will claim is an overreaction.  These agitators are always accompanied by accomplices who will be recording and/or livestreaming their interactions with police. 

SLPOA is in no way advocating for you to stand down, to refuse to follow orders or to decline to take appropriate action.  However, we want our members to do so safely and with the knowledge that these events are being examined very closely.  We have seen cases over the years wherein the city has declined to indemnify officers involved in incidents during similar protests.  Please keep that in mind if you are called to deal with any unruly participants. 

Be safe!

Fraternally,

The SLPOA Executive Board 

SLU Protest Announcement.docx