Arrests at Merrick Demonstration

County Executive Laura Curran and Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder would like to advise the public that after five days of peaceful protests in Nassau County with no arrests, today it became necessary for police to arrest 11 protesters (10 adults for disorderly conduct as well as 1 juvenile). For the demonstrator’s safety, Police repeatedly made attempts to keep protesters off the Meadowbrook Parkway. This safety precaution was met with strong opposition and resistance which resulted in the arrests of these subjects. Additionally, two police officers were injured.

Nassau County Police Officers are highly trained professionals and for days at multiple demonstrations, had positively engaged with protesters at all events, even during some tense moments.

Our Police Officers take an oath to protect and serve and they have done that admirably. We have and continue to protect the public which includes protesters, during marches, on major roadways and during their interaction with counter protesters.

We continue to support the rights of individuals who exercise their freedom of speech according to the First Amendment; however, these demonstrations must remain safe and orderly.

We would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation during these troubling times.