EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso Police Department says it is aware of social media videos and reports of individuals wearing Ku Klux Klan-style robes and hoods and is reviewing whether any laws were broken, El Paso Police Chief Peter Pacillas said in a statement issued on Monday, Oct. 26.
Pacillas said they are reviewing whether these individuals may have violated laws against disorderly conduct or other applicable laws.
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“Free expression has limits when it crosses into conduct or other applicable offenses,” Pacillas said. “Free expression has limits when it crosses into conduct that threatens public order or the safety of others.”
Pacillas also wrote that “symbols and language associated with the Klu Klux Klan represent a history of terror, violence and racial hatred.”
“They have no place in our community,” he wrote. “Treating that history as a costume or a joke is unacceptable and contrary to the values and safety that define El Paso.”
“Parents, families and community members play an essential role in teaching young people that hatred and intimidation have no place here,” Pacillas added. “The El Paso Police Department remains committed to protecting every resident, regardless of background and to maintaining the safety and dignity of our neighborhoods.”
Pacillas said the Police Department is continuing to monitor the situation and will take “appropriate action consistent with the law and department policy.”
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Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the El Paso Police Department.
The non-emergency number is (915) 832-4400.
Here is the entire statement from Chief Pacillas.
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