Dalton Police response to the rebel flag vehicle procession

On Sunday, June 28, 2015, the Dalton Police Department was alerted through social media that a group of citizens was planning a procession of vehicles from the Walnut Square Mall to the Wal-Mart on Shugart Road in Dalton. Given the history that gatherings perpetuated through social media can tend to grow to a scale that is difficult to control after the fact, the Dalton Police Department contacted representatives of the group and Walmart to determine the safest way to proceed in a lawful manner and impact the free flow of traffic as little as possible.

Once at Wal-Mart on Shugart Road, officers remained on scene to ensure the event was concluded peacefully.

The Dalton Police Department does not take sides with any group who may be taking part in a demonstration or procession, but the department is responsible for the safety of participants and spectators on all sides of an issue, including actions protected under the first amendment. Dalton Police Chief Jason Parker said, “We had a concern that the group may proceed without coordination, and felt it would be safer for our community to have a presence there to keep it peaceful. Our officers are in a tough position sometimes because they are called in to maintain order in the middle of strongly opposing views. We do not support any group which discriminates against the rights of others, or attempts to cause fear or alarm in our community”.

The department recommends viewing Internet videos and accounts of the event with caution, since these sources can be heavily edited, and represent the personal views of those who may post or comment.