Aug.
18, 2017
W.Va.
Capitol safety rules reinforced ahead of Sunday rally
CHARLESTON,
W.Va. – To ensure the safety and security of the West Virginia
Capitol Complex and all who work and visit there, the Capitol Police is
reminding everyone of the long-standing prohibition of weapons on the campus
and in its buildings.
The items banned under §61-6-19 and
§61-7-2 of the West Virginia Code include all manner of firearms as well as
multiple categories of knives and bludgeons.
In the wake of the tragic attack and
violence in Charlottesville, Va., the Capitol Police has specifically
prohibited the following additional items from the Capitol grounds, effective
immediately:
·
Sticks, including those affixed to signs;
·
Helmets;
·
Shields;
·
Water guns or pistols;
·
Capstun or pepper spray
Also, bicycles and animals will be
prohibited for the duration of Sunday’s event in the Capitol’s North Plaza,
where the group Call to Action for Racial Equality has obtained a permit to
hold its rally.
Other items and materials may be
prohibited if they appear to pose a risk to people or property. Visitors are
urged to apply common sense and be mindful of these prohibitions before they
enter the Capitol Complex grounds.
The Capitol Police further reminds
visitors that backpacks, coolers and bags brought on to the campus are subject
to search.
Other relevant state laws include the
prohibition of the wearing of masks, hoods or face coverings on the Capitol
grounds and other public spaces.
The Capitol Police is coordinating its
safety and security measures with multiple law enforcement agencies as well as
with the Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. This collaboration will ensure
that all applicable laws are strictly enforced to provide for the safety and
security of all people and property on the Capitol campus.
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