The Modesto City Attorney’s Office has dropped criminal charges against the five people arrested for wearing face coverings during the June 14 protests, saying it wants to give the Community Police Review Board an opportunity to review the ordinance.
“Although [the Modesto Police Department] acted lawfully and appropriately, the City Attorney’s Office has decided not to file criminal charges in connection with the June 14 face-covering violations,” reads a press release from the city. “This decision reflects the city’s desire to use this moment as an opportunity for education and to encourage greater community cooperation with local ordinances moving forward.”
The city maintained that police took a proactive approach to ensure public safety during the Ice Out Mass Mobilization Protest at Tenth Street Plaza and the No Kings – National Day of Defiance at Graceada Park, and stated it has clear legal authority to enact and enforce local ordinances that prioritize safety…