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Texas Governor Abbott has deployed Texas National Guard troops to San Antonio ahead of a what is being called a major protest being planned for Wednesday evening. Abbott's office says the state stands ready to deploy all necessary resources ahead of any upcoming protests.
"The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary personnel and resources to uphold law and order across our state. Texas National Guard soldiers are on standby in areas where mass demonstrations are planned in case they are needed. Peaceful protests are part of the fabric of our nation, but Texas will not tolerate the lawlessness we have seen in Los Angeles. Anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property will be swiftly held accountable to the full extent of the law," said Press Secretary Andrew Mahaleris.
San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) Assistant Chief Jesse Salame sent News 4 in San Antonio a statement confirming the deployment.
"The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights of individuals and groups to hold peaceful and lawful demonstrations. On Sunday, SAPD monitored a peaceful protest at City Hall, and we will continue to do so at future demonstrations to ensure public safety and uphold the rights of all participants. To help facilitate safe and organized events, individuals or groups planning to gather are encouraged to submit an application through the Office of Processions and Public Assemblies. Once submitted, an SAPD officer will contact the event organizer to develop a Traffic Safety Plan tailored to the event," Chief McManus said in a statement.