Today, Nevada Attorney General Aaron D. Ford addressed recent protests with a statement emphasizing his commitment to both public safety and the constitutional rights of Nevadans, including the right to peaceful protest.
"In light of recent demonstrations across our communities, my priorities as Attorney General remain clear: protecting both public safety and Nevadans’ constitutional rights, including the First Amendment right to peacefully protest," Ford stated.
Ford emphasized that violence will not be tolerated in Nevada and assured that lawbreakers will face consequences. He also highlighted the importance of protecting those who exercise their rights peacefully. "Violence of any kind will not be tolerated in the Silver State, and those who break the law will be held accountable. Likewise, those who are exercising their rights peacefully must be protected," he said.
He expressed confidence in Nevada's local law enforcement agencies' ability to manage situations without federal intervention. "We do not need a federalized National Guard — and we certainly don't need the United States Marine Corps — in Nevada," Ford added.
The Attorney General encouraged peaceful participation in protests and urged compliance with law enforcement directives. "I encourage anyone participating in protests to do so peacefully, and I implore the public to obey law enforcement’s orders. If a protest is declared an unlawful assembly by law enforcement, everyone should disperse immediately."
Additionally, Ford's office has released a document detailing Nevadans' First Amendment freedoms for public access.