A rally in downtown Laurens on June 27 brings political leaders, ministers, law enforcement officers, and the public together in a show of support for Laurens County Law Enforcement. The event was organized in the wake of civil unrest across the nation after the in-custody death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. State Sen. Danny Verdin said if you encounter a blue light in your rear view mirror, pull over to a safe distance, comply with requests and find it in yourself to use a "yes, sir" and "yes, mam." Clinton Mayor Bob McLean said the city will not be part of the "defund the police movement;" the Floyd death has led Minneapolis and other cities to consider spending less on police and more on mental health and drug abuse counselors, since law enforcement says these are two areas of concern for officers responding to calls and making arrests. Speakers said reforming the police should be a local - not a federal - matter. Newly elected Laurens County Council member Luke Rankin was emcee for the event. - Photos by Vic MacDonald
