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| Tyrone West, killed by Baltimore Police. |
A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
Candle holding supporters, family and friends gathered on the corner of Kitmore Rd and Kelway Rd.
With uniformed officers all around, in addition to plain clothes units circling in cars, it felt as if Baltimore Police were preparing for something big to go down. Mind you, this was a peaceful vigil, planned to remember a man, who witnesses say was beaten and stomped to death by Baltimore Police.
It should come as no surprise, but I'm not big on looking all around and seeing nothing but blue uniforms.
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| Neighborhood welcome committee. There were much more than this. (@BmoreBloc/Baltimore Spectator) |
There were lots of murmurings in the crowd about the heavy presence. Some gave glares and stares. Others weren't so subtle, even calling out the police on the mic while addressing supporters attending the vigil. No doubt, Baltimore Police were an unwelcome presence on this street corner. Just last week they'd killed a man on this very spot.
Police are used to people being afraid and intimidated by them. After All, they've proven time and time again they have the power to kill at will, and suffer no repercussions, always finding a way to justify their violent acts.. So for the average citizen, fear of confrontation and contact is not unreasonable at all.
Unfortunately for those employing psychological tactics of intimidation, some of us aren't so easily moved. Instead of guessing and wondering why the hell there were so many police, I decided to step away from the crowd, and as a dutiful investigative journalist, go to the source and just ask.
I'd like to thank my brave team of independent, underground guerrilla journalists, the Certified Bomb Technicians, for coming along to not only document the "interview,' but their presence also ensured Baltimore Police would be on their best behavior. An uncommon occurrence these days.
Below is a raw video clip. A better one is coming, stay tuned for that. The sound isn't that great, but the visuals are priceless. Notice the group of cops on the right, immediately scurrying away from the presence of our cameras. Capt. Johnson on the other hand, being a commander, was somewhat obliged to maintain a professional presence.
Never be afraid to confront your enemy and face your accusers.
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Community activist, independent journalist, and entrepreneur, A.F. James MacArthur is used to not being welcomed in public places.
Community activist, independent journalist, and entrepreneur, A.F. James MacArthur is used to not being welcomed in public places.
