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Federal Charges Loom for Those Engaging in Unlawful Obstruction in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine – April 25, 2024
In a statement released today, U.S. Attorney Andrew Benson made it clear that those who engage in unlawful obstruction and violence during protests in Maine will face federal charges.
According to Benson, federal law enforcement is sworn to uphold the Constitution and will not tolerate acts of violence against individuals, destruction of property, or obstruction of lawful governmental activity.
The Constitution guarantees the right to peacefully assemble and protest, but these rights do not include forcibly assaulting or impeding federal law enforcement officers, willfully destroying government property, or unlawfully obstructing federal law enforcement activity.
Those who commit these federal crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, Benson warned.
‘Anyone who forcibly assaults or impedes a federal law enforcement officer, willfully destroys government property, or unlawfully obstructs federal law enforcement activity commits a federal crime and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.’
Benson also urged public figures to promote peaceful protest and engagement, rather than inflaming the situation with divisive rhetoric.
‘Force, intimidation and threats have no place in our public discourse and are contrary to our time-honored tradition in Maine of peaceful civic engagement.’
Andrew Benson, U.S. Attorney, emphasized the importance of preserving the right to peaceful assembly and protest while ensuring that these rights are exercised without violence or obstruction.
Key Facts
- State: Maine
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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