Clashing Political Rallies In Laguna Beach Have Police Vigilant

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — America First supporters are planning a peaceful rally in Laguna Beach Sunday, Aug. 20, the Laguna Beach Police Department said in a recent release. Planned at Main Beach, the rally is said to focus on immigration-related violence and building stronger borders, event organizers said.

A peaceful public gathering is the order of the day, according to Laguna Beach Police Department Sgt. Jim Cota. Another group, focused on counter-protesting America First, has also expressed its desire to gather in Laguna Beach at the same time.

"We know who the counter protesters are, and we are expecting them," Cota said. "More than welcome to come and speak their mind."

The Laguna Beach Police Department is aware of both events scheduled for Aug. 20 at Main Beach.

"We routinely monitor any event, rally, demonstration or protest whether planned or unplanned. In preparation of events such as these, we communicate with the event organizer and share our expectations related to the time, place and manner of the event, in an effort to maintain a safe environment for the residents, business owners and visitors in our community," Cota said.

While counter-protesters have expressed concern over Facebook that the America First rally will be racial in nature, Cota, who has monitored the previous America First rallies, said that racism was not part of any of the previous three gatherings.

"The Laguna Beach Police Department and other agencies will take every measure possible to ensure public safety," Cota said. "One thing to stress, is that this is not the same group from Charlottesville."

On July 30, the America First group rallied at the same site, drawing approximately 100 supporters wearing red, waving American flags, carrying banners and dishing on their reasons for supporting President Trump as well as the necessity to secure the borders, as can be seen in the below video.

The live blog from that event showed a peaceful rally where supporters shared their views with all passers-by and beach-goers in the free- speech area of Main Beach.

"As a reminder, all people have the right of free speech and assembly guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution," Cota said. "This right includes the freedom to express opinions; to hear, express, debate and support various views, no matter how unpopular; and to voice criticism and opposition to such opinions. The Laguna Beach Police Department mission is to preserve human rights and enhance the quality of life through law enforcement and responsive public service, in partnership with the community."

The below video shows the full event held from July 30:

The Laguna Beach Police Department ensures that everyone's rights to free speech will be met Sunday, Aug. 20, but also that safety is the primary order of the day for all who attend on Sunday.

If you have any further questions regarding the Aug. 20 gathering, please feel free to contact Sgt. Jim Cota at jcota@lagunabeachcity.net or (949) 464-6671.

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