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Police to seek legal guidance after demonstration outside Young School draws parent concerns
Summary
Councilors asked for a legal briefing after demonstrators walked near Young School and displayed stuffed white sheets stained with dye. Police said no laws were broken during the demonstration; the city will meet with legal counsel and the school to review options.
Councilors asked city staff Jan. 13 to review legal options after demonstrators staged a protest that passed near Young School and General Dynamics earlier in the week.
Councilor Hewitt said many residents had raised concerns on social media and notified the council about the demonstration and its impact on students. "This has been a recurring problem and it is impacting our students here in Saco," she said.
According to the police report presented to the council, about 17 people assembled near General Dynamics and walked on sidewalks across the street to the crosswalk in front of Young School, repeatedly moving in a U‑shaped path near the school entrance. Officers observed protesters carrying white stuffed sheets stained with a red dye; the police officer who summarized the incident told the council demonstrators remained on public sidewalks and did not block streets or commit disorderly conduct. No summonses were issued for this event.
City officials said the matter implicates First Amendment protections, which complicates efforts to restrict demonstrators’ locations. The city administrator and public‑safety leaders told councilors they will convene a meeting with police leadership, the school superintendent and the city attorney to review the event and legal options. The council asked staff to report back after legal counsel and the superintendent have briefed the city on potential measures that respect free‑speech rights while addressing public‑safety and student‑welfare concerns.
