AUSTIN, Texas – Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Saturday activated the Texas National Guard and deployed state resources in response to the protests taking place regarding the death of George Floyd, a black man who was killed after a white police officer pressed a knee into his neck in Minnesota.
“Texans have every right to exercise their first amendment rights, but violence and looting will not be tolerated,” Abbott said in a statement.
Recommended Videos
Abbott sent resources to the cities of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Austin to maintain public safety.
San Antonians to gather at Travis Park for peaceful protest in response to George Floyd’s killing
A press release said the governor and Texas Department of Public Safety officials have spoken with Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, and Austin Mayor Steve Adler, as well as law enforcement officials in those cities.
DPS has sent more than 1,500 officers to assist local police departments and more resources will be provided as needed.
“Texas and America mourn the senseless loss of George Floyd and the actions that led to his death are reprehensible and should be condemned in the strongest terms possible,” Gov. Abbott said. “As Texans exercise their 1st Amendment rights, it is imperative that order is maintained and private property is protected.”