Businesses in the Bay Area are bracing for potential unrest by boarding up windows for possible unrest that may occur after Derek Chauvin’s verdict comes down in Minnesota.
The Alameda County Sheriff’s Office says they have no plans to request help from the National Guard. However, they plan to work with Oakland Police and numerous agencies to respond to any potential unrest.
In San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose and many other areas in the Bay Area, store fronts have been covered with fresh plywood on Sunday.
“It’s very tough and emotionally I feel very sad. Why things happen like this?” Van Dang of Golden Lotus Vegan Vietnamese Restaurant told ABC News.
The potential unrest has prompted Councilmember Noel Gallo to encourage protesters to host a peaceful demonstration when the verdict comes down.
“Please, please, if you come to Oakland do not destroy our community, we’re trying to build this community for the children and families of today and the future.” Gallo added. “Please don’t set our places on fire, break our windows, graffiti them, and we would really appreciate you respecting the city.”
Closing arguments in the Derek Chauvin trial are set to begin on Monday.
