We are providing an update on a protest event that happened Wednesday (July 8) in Manheim Borough.
The demonstration began at 4 p.m. and lasted until about 7:30 p.m.
Approximately 60 to 70 people participated in peaceful demonstration while marching around the borough.
There were smaller groups of counter-protesters as well, some of whom were openly carrying firearms.
The demonstrations were peaceful and without violence.
As of this time, police received no reports of injury, physical altercation, or threats involving firearms.
There were no arrests.
Investigation is still ongoing regarding possible citations. None had been filed as of late Wednesday night.
The Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office was among many agencies and departments present.
There was a heavy police presence around the borough throughout the demonstration to ensure the safety and protection of constitutional rights of protesters, counter-protesters and residents, and to safeguard public property and buildings.
As needed, police directed traffic around the demonstrations.
Law enforcement officials are thankful for the dialogue between police and protesters and police and counter-protesters which aided in preserving peaceful protest.
The numerous police departments and agencies assisting included: Northern Lancaster County Regional, Ephrata, East Hempfield, Lititz, West Lampeter, Elizabethtown, Columbia, East Hempfield Township, Northwest Regional and Mount Joy police departments, Pennsylvania State Police, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office, Lancaster County Detectives, Lancaster County Drug Task Force, and Lancaster County SERT.
MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us; Twitter: @BrettHambright