Following the violence in Atlanta this Fourth of July weekend, Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency. The release from the governor's office says violence and property crime in Atlanta has increased over recent weeks.
30 citizens were shot and five were killed over the weekend. Kemp's new order delcares a State of Emergency, permitting the activation of up to 1,000 National Guard Troops.
"Peaceful protests were hijacked by criminals with a dangerous, destructive agenda. Now, innocent Georgians are being targeted, shot, and left for dead," said Governor Kemp. "This lawlessness must be stopped and order restored in our capital city. I have declared a State of Emergency and called up the Georgia Guard because the safety of our citizens comes first. This measure will allow troops to protect state property and dispatch state law enforcement officers to patrol our streets. Enough with the tough talk. We must protect the lives and livelihoods of all Georgians."
View the full Executive Order here.
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