In the aftermath of Ferguson and Baltimore, both cities were chastised for the show of force used to address protesters, with particular criticisms of the display of tanks and military gear. Fast forward to August 2017 in Charlottesville, Virginia, where the city was criticized for allegedly standing by and failing to intervene amid physical altercations between protesters. Meanwhile, local governments are under heavy scrutiny by the media and the public for any use of force, especially deadly force. The balance between the constitutional protection of free speech and ensuring order and safety is delicate for local governments that are attempting to make the right decisions and avoid future liability.
LitigationLiability