It’s been nearly a week since Governor Bill Haslam signed a law prohibiting unauthorized camping on government property. The measure was aimed squarely at Occupy Nashville protesters. A dedicated few are waiting to test law enforcement.
Benjamin Grady
The state posted notices, giving Occupiers like Benjamin Grady a week to leave War Memorial Plaza.
“It could be as early as 12:01 AM Friday morning that they come. We really don’t know at this point. We’re kind of just biding time.”
Grady says he won’t be sticking around, but a handful of protesters are making plans to be arrested.
The penalties are stiffer than they were in October when more than 50 people were hauled away in handcuffs. The new state law unauthorized camping a Class A misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500 and a year in jail.
According to Occupy Nashville’s official Twitter account, state troopers went around overnight reminding protesters they would have to leave by midnight Thursday. A press conference is planned for noon.
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