Friday N/C Topic: Armed Militia in Kenosha

Aug. 28, 2020 4:15p

(WGTD)---Are armed militiamen welcome in Kenosha as the city deals with unrest?

The answer from Mayor Antaramian is an unequivocal no. "I do not want you here. I do not expect you to be here. And I think you should stay away," Antaramian said at the daily media briefing in the Public Safety  Building. "I think that's about as clear as I can make it," he added.

Kenosha County Sheriff Dave Beth answered the question a bit differently, saying he supports the second amendment. "The people who've been here carrying guns..they haven't been arrested because it's a right that they have. Are we asking them to come in and support things? I am not," Beth said.

A number of armed men were standing around Tuesday night when two men were killed and another wounded, allegedly by a 17-year-old Antioch boy who had an assault rifle of some sort.

Beth was also asked about video showing someone in an armored vehicle thanking militiamen for being there. Beth said the comments don't reflect the views of law enforcement.

Also Friday, officials said over 1,000 national guard troops are in Kenosha, and will stay as long as needed. 

There are no plans at the moment to end the overnight curfew ahead of Sunday night's expiration. 

About 50 people have been arrested so far, including someone who had a flame thrower, according to Kenosha Police Chief Daniel Miskinis. 

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