Round 3 With APD

Posted by Luke Montavon in Albuquerque

On April 4, a group of roughly 100 demonstrators gathered for a third time at civic plaza to condemn the Albuquerque Police Department for allegations of police brutality and the recent killings of homeless man James Boyd and Albuquerque resident Alfred Redwine.

Demonstrations were to be held from 4:15-7:15 p.m. in the evening. Despite a diminished attendance compared to previous demonstrations, a march was eventually led at approximately 6 p.m. to Central Avenue back to Civic Plaza. Demonstrators kept to the streets of downtown Albuquerque shouting, “This is a peaceful protest.”

Returning to Civic Plaza, community members gave testimony against police brutality, as well as against actions taken by some demonstrators March 31.  One speaker, Nora Anaya, whose son was killed by the Albuquerque Police Department in the 1980s, suggested the recalling  Mayor Richard Berry.

In addition, speakers urged those in the audience to attend a special City Council meeting regarding public safety issues held on April 7, that was attended by hundreds according to the Albuquerque Journal.The Journal also reported on a rally in support of APD, which was held April 6.

APD declined a presence, in addition government buildings surrounding civic plaza closed early expecting a larger demonstration.