Protestors Say Gray Trials In Baltimore A Small Victory In Larger Fight
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The trials for the six officers charged in the death of Freddie Gray will remain in Baltimore. It's the final motions ruling before those trials begin.
Christie Ileto with more on demonstrations outside the courthouse.
It's the welcome news many protestors say they were hoping for, but just a small victory in a larger fight for justice.
The trial stays here--it's the soundtrack for Thursday's rally, as a judge rules to keep the cases of the six accused officers in the city.
"Lord god, they did the right thing," said Adriane McBride.
Like many out Thursday, McBride feared the worst
"Nice try, but it didn't work," she said.
"Of the 275,000 we have that can be on the jury, I think they can find a fair trial for the six officers," said Adam Jackson, Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle.
Keeping the case local was a priority for activists over two weeks appearing in protests.
Police were out in the crowds, but not in riot gear.
Only one person was arrested for being in an area that was considered off-limits.
"Part of treating a protest like a protest is to ensure that a lawful, peaceful protest doesn't go south due to the actions of a small, small number of people," said Interim Police Commissioner Kevin Davis.
In preparation for Thursday's hearing, police brass canceled officers' leave, bracing for any outcome.
"This is a victory; a minor one, at that," one protestor said.
Last week, a judge denied motions to drop the charges against the officers, but ordered them to stand trial separately.
"I think it is important in that context that you're able to keep it local that way we can actually get a fair process for, not just the officers, but for the people who feel wronged as a result," said Jackson.
Thursday's hearing was the last before the October trial.
The protestor arrested has been identified as 24-year-old Ryan Arrendell. Police say she was told multiple times to move to an area designated specifically for protestors, but refused.
LIVE BLOG: Follow the latest developments on Thursday's Freddie Gray hearing
