Atlanta Destroyed After Riots and Protests

Atlanta Capitol Building

Atlanta, Ga. - As a local Atlanta attorney, although I am an Atlanta DUI Lawyer, I feel that I would be discrediting the events of the past 24 hours if I did not cover the riots and protests that have occurred within the City of Atlanta.

Starting yesterday, protests began in the wake of the death of George Floyd, an African American man who died after being pinned down by a police officer in Minneapolis. It began as a peaceful silent protest yesterday. However, today, citizens of the City of Atlanta woke up to destruction.

The protest took a turn into violence, chaos, and looting. According to reports, rioters and protesters burned police cars and broke into stores throughout downtown Atlanta all the way into Buckhead. Mayor Bottoms held a news conference last night pleading with the protesters and rioters. She stated, “This is not a protest. This is not in the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. This is chaos. A protest has purpose. When Dr. King was assassinated, we didn't do this to our city. You are disgracing our city. You are disgracing the life of George Floyd and every other person who has been killed in this country.”

Police and other city officials were attacked with knives, firecrackers, and other types of projectiles. The Atlanta Police Department made it clear that protesters would be allowed to gather as long as no laws were violated. Obviously, the peace was not kept.

Police ultimately fired tear gas into crowds of people, while they in turn fashioned weapons out of barricades. Governor Brian Kemp announced earlier this morning that he had called in the National Guard to come in and help local authorities.

Residents, business owners, and local police are currently cleaning up the city. While they clean trash, debris, and ash throughout Atlanta, the National Guard is standing over to ensure their safety.

Practice Note

Now, while this involves many crimes that are not at all related to DUI in Atlanta. However, many arrests have resulted and will result from these incidents that have occurred in the past day.

If you have been arrested in the City of Atlanta, call our offices now. We can consult with you about your case and help you determine the best course of action for you.

And to the citizens of Atlanta, stay safe. And in the words of Killer Mike, remember… “It is your duty not to burn your own house down for anger with an enemy. It is your duty to fortify your own house so that you may be a house of refuge in times of organization.”