ATLANTA, GA — At least 60 people who were indicted on Aug. 29 relating to violence at the site of the future Atlanta Public Safety Training Center have been arraigned, Atlanta News First reported Monday.
The group was arraigned early Monday at a Fulton County courthouse, the outlet reported.
Atlanta News First shared video coverage of a rally protesting the Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations charges the massive group of defendants are facing.
Find out what’s happening in Atlantawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Charges range from domestic terrorism to money laundering and first-degree attempted arson, according to a 109-page indictment released on Sept. 5 by Attorney General Chris Carr.
“They’re trying to repress free speech, and they’re ultimately trying to crush any dissent against them,” a demonstrator told Atlanta News First.
Find out what’s happening in Atlantawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
RELATED: ATL Training Center: 61 Indicted, Accused Of Violence
The training center, also known as “Cop City,” has been at the forefront of a battle between law enforcement and protesters who are against the building of the East Atlanta center for environmental concerns. Atlanta city officials have promised to protect the forest in the building of the center. The proposed site is near Key and Constitution roads.
The 61 people who were indicted are accused of being members of Defend the Atlanta Forest and are accused of organizing violent acts and destroying property in Fulton County and throughout Georgia and other states. Thirteen defendants are from Georgia.
RELATED: $15K Reward Offered In Attacks On Atlanta Police Facilities
The group is accused in at least 225 incidents that include throwing rocks and Molotov cocktails through a Department of Public Safety window, injuring two employees and setting the building on fire.
“The criminal acts of those named in this indictment have placed public safety personnel and members of…
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