Tulsa FOP: Don't Hold Protest At Mayor's Home

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, OK -- The Tulsa Police union is urging anyone wishing to protest the recent layoffs at the City of Tulsa is urged to seek a more appropriate venue than the mayor's house for their demonstration.

The Tulsa Fraternal Order of Police issued a news release Thursday evening:

"The FOP recognizes and appreciates the outpouring of support generated by the recent layoff of 21 police officers," said FOP President Philip Evans.

"The FOP first learned of a planned protest at the Mayors residence, this morning, during an interview between President Evans and Joe Kelly (KRMG). This protest is not sponsored or encouraged by the FOP.  

"We encourage all citizens to exercise their Constitutional Right of free speech," Evans continued. "The FOP encourages those who desire to exercise their rights to do so appropriately and lawfully.  

"The FOP would suggest the protest occur at a public site such as City Hall, not at a site near to someone's private property in a residential neighborhood.

"A public site would provide a location, for individuals participating in the protest, to do so lawfully. This would reduce the risk, by those participating in the protest, of unintentionally violating laws or ordinances pertaining to protests."

Earlier this week, the city of Tulsa laid off 37 employees, including 21 police officers.

10/27/2009 Related story: Thirty-Seven Tulsa City Employees Get Pink Slips