Las Vegas police, Sheriff Lombardo host news conference — LIVESTREAM
Las Vegas leaders said Sunday evening they stand in solidarity with those peacefully protesting in the name of the late George Floyd.
At a 5 p.m. press conference, which was the same time people gathered for a Black Lives Matter protest in front of Mandalay Bay, officials said they supported the message of the protesters and were appalled at the actions of the officers in Minnesota.
The conference included Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman, City Councilman Cedric Crear, Metropolitan Police Department Undersheriff Deputy Kevin McMahill, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford and members of the faith community.
McMahill said 25 police officers needed medical attention because some rioters had thrown rocks and frozen water bottles. Some officers were injured by fire, he said.
“We stand in solidarity with all of you in demonstrating your right to come out and protest,” he said. “We’ve done everything that we possibly can and we will continue to do everything that we can to keep all of you that are following the rule of law, protesting,” he said.
McMahill added officers will be working to arrest those breaking the law.
Goodman said Las Vegas has come a long way in the decades since segregation.
“Las Vegas must continue to work as one to prove it is a model of what being one people can truly tell the world,” she said. “We must strive and work to be the truly caring and compassionate home for all peoples equally and together.”
Ford said he was proud of the work Metro has done.
“Are they perfect? Absolutely not. We have work to do, we absolutely do,” he said. “I stand in solidarity with those here today around me letting you know that we love you and we love this city.”
Contact Alex Chhith at achhith@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0290. Follow @alexchhith on Twitter.
