The controversial George Zimmerman trial could wrap up by the end of the week, and the Broward Sheriff’s Office is asking area residents to express themselves with their voices instead of resorting to violence and rioting.
“You have the right to express yourself, but what you say and do should not hurt others,” sayd Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel in a video released ahead of the verdict.
A host of youth appeared after Israel to kindly urge citizens to not get out of control after the verdict.
“Don’t throw a rock, be a rock,” says one girl.
Israel later said: “Raise your voice, not your hands.”
Zimmerman is charged with second-degree murder after a scuffle with an unarmed black youth in his Florida community ended with him shooting the youth, Trayvon Martin. Zimmerman, a Hispanic, says he shot Martin in self-defense.
Israel said that the sheriff’s office doesn’t know of any specific events planned for after the verdict is rendered, but “we encourage everyone to keep any protests peaceful.”
In another video, two youth rap about a peaceful expression about whatever verdict comes.
