STURGIS, S.D. – Sturgis police on Monday issued a press release on the protest that took place on Main Street Saturday night during the annual Motorcycle Rally.
Sturgis Police Chief Geody VanDewater says about seven of the protesters were from Rapid City and to their knowledge, were not affiliated with ANTIFA. The planned demonstration was made known to law enforcement by citizens who contacted authorities after seeing the event on social media.
The demonstration took place due to events such as the Rally, Days of 76′ Rodeo and Pennington County Central States Fair taking place. Protestors held up signs, one that featured an expletive and then Rally, Fair and Rodeo.
The group was given guidelines by law enforcement as they attempted to exercise their first amendment rights. Law enforcement told the protesters that they must remain peaceful and not violate any state laws or city ordinances.
The demonstration started at around 4 p.m., but after about 45 minutes from the start of the protests, one demonstrator, Drew Wishon (23) of Rapid City, kicked a motorcyclist as he was passing by. Wishon was placed under arrest for Disorderly Conduct and was removed from the scene.
Due to the safety of everyone involved, the demonstrators were moved from the area and were no longer allowed to demonstrate. The protesters were escorted from the area and left Sturgis.
