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$1 million bail set for Lancaster protesters decried as 'blatantly unconstitutional'
USA TODAY
Bail was set Tuesday at $1 million for several protesters arrested during demonstrations against a fatal police shooting in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a move decried by many including the state's lieutenant governor, who called it "blatantly unconstitutional."
Lancaster police arrested 12 adults and one juvenile after about 100 people gathered outside the city's police station Sunday following the police killing of Ricardo Munoz, 27, who authorities say chased an officer with a knife. Police said the demonstration devolved into a riot that caused damage to the station, vandalism to local businesses and a small fire, and officers used "chemical munitions" to disperse the crowd.
At least seven of them were held on $1 million bail, according to police.
The adults face charges including conspiracy to commit arson, riot, institutional vandalism and disorderly conduct. One has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon without a permit. The 13 defendants range from 16 to 43 years old and live in Lancaster and surrounding communities.
Peaceful protesters from Portland and Seattle may find that "peaceful" has a different definition in the Lancaster's of America.
DA's and Judges might find that $1m bail gets lowered on appeal, but protesters may still get to cool their heels for a couple of months before parents can raise a lessor amount.