The protests and violence in Ferguson, Missouri following an unarmed teen’s killing by a cop have started a national debate over police and power. Β After a week of anger and violence, President Obama is signaling a push for peace.Β
Last night’s protests marked some of the fiercest clashes yet between police and protesters. Β In some places, officials reported gunfire and Molotov cocktails used against police. Β Police advanced in armored tanks and shot tear gas to break up crowds.Β
It’s a scene that makes more sense in a war zone than in a suburb of Saint Louis. Β The armored tanks and military style weapons are a big part of that. Β In Charlotte, we’ve seen CMPD in full riot gear on the streets of Charlotte before. Β We’ve seen them during a SWAT situation in east Charlotte. Β The Occupy Charlotte movement, during NC protests. Β And who can forget the riots in uptown Charlotte on the Fourth of July in 2006. Β
CMPD tells WCCB they have strict rules about tactical force. Β So our Question of the Night: Do local police need tanks and tear gas? Β Our Man on the Edge, Robert Wilder, hit the peaceful streets of uptown Charlotte to ask around…
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