From Asheville Police Department:
The Asheville Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all individuals attending the Trump campaign event at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, located inside Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville, on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. Public safety is the City’s top priority. Extensive preparation and planning have taken place in collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies. Coordination efforts will continue throughout the event.
To enhance security, our officers will maintain a strong and visible presence in the HCC area, patrolling by vehicle, on foot, and on bicycles. These measures are designed to safeguard all participants and visitors.
The Asheville Police Department respects the First Amendment rights of individuals to assemble peacefully. We are dedicated to protecting these rights while ensuring public safety. We would like to remind everyone that while North Carolina law permits open carry, there is an exception prohibiting the possession of firearms and other dangerous weapons at parades or demonstrations on public property. (NCGS § 14-277.2) (Ord. No. 2299, § 2, 6-25-96)
We encourage our community to treat each other with respect. Adhering to all applicable laws and regulations will help ensure that everyone can safely exercise their right to free speech.
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