Abortion protest photo from REUTERS/Tom Brenner.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — Last night, a spontaneous protest against the United States Supremem Court decision overturning Roe vs. Wade developed in Sioux Falls. It began in Lyons Park around 7pm. Sioux Falls police said there were about 30 people to start. Over the course of an hour, the numbers grew to approximately 1100 people. Tensions mounted and there were derogatory chats directed at the police in addition to those voicing anger over the Supreme Court’s decision. Some of the protestors decided to sit in the street and block traffic. There were smoke canisters used to disperse the crowd.
This morning during the daily police briefing, it was learned the protest had been classified as an unlawfull assembly rather than a riot. Sioux Falls does have ordinances defining these things. According to the ordinance, a disorderly assembly means an assembly of two or more persons, some or all of whom are engaged in conduct which threatens the public peace or safety through fighting or violent or threatening behavior, loud language, unreasonable noise, obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic or by littering or breakage. Rioting, as defined by the state of South Dakota is any intentional use of force or violence by three or more persons, acting together and without authority of law, to cause any injury to any person or any damage to property is riot.
For a dip into the riveting world of Sioux Falls City ordinances, click here.
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