The heads of a pair of local law enforcement agencies have issued statements ahead of expected protests planned for Saturday.
Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam has issued a statement emphasizing the importance of peaceful demonstrations and the safety of the community.
“As Sheriff, my highest obligation is to defend and protect life, liberty, and property. Peaceful protest is a fundamental right protected by the Constitution, and I will always defend the ability of our citizens to make their voices heard,” Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam stated.
“However, let me be absolutely clear—violence, destruction of property, and assaults on our public servants or private citizens will not be tolerated in Washoe County,” he continued.
Balaam said the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is committed to public safety and will respond to any threats to peace with “firm and lawful consequences.”
“I encourage every resident to choose unity over division, dialogue over destruction, and peace over provocation. In times of distress, we must come together—not to inflame, but to heal and strengthen the community we all call home,” Balaam said.
The Sheriff’s Office says it will continue to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to help ensure demonstrations remain peaceful. Stating that additional resources will be deployed to protect critical infrastructure, public areas, and community events.
Sparks Police Chief Chris Crawforth also released a statement ahead of the protests.
"I would like to reiterate our department’s commitment to protecting the rights of all individuals to express themselves peacefully and lawfully. The right to protest is a cornerstone of our democracy and your 1st Amendment right will always be protected by our department," he said.
Crawforth then turned his attention to violence and property destruction seen in some demonstrations across the country, and how his department would react to similar events.
"Let me be clear: violence, property destruction, and any form of assault against our public servants or citizens will be met with immediate and decisive action in the City of Sparks. Our responsibility is to uphold the law and ensure the safety of all members of our community, which we will continue to do."
