New York: New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Monday issued a direct message to supporters of former U.S. President Donald Trump, stating that law enforcement authorities would take strict action against those who violate the law during protests related to Trump's upcoming arraignment on state charges, reported news agency Reuters.
Trump had arrived in New York on Monday and was scheduled to surrender himself to prosecutors in Manhattan on Tuesday, making him the first former U.S. president to face criminal charges. He was indicted in a grand jury probe for his alleged involvement in paying hush money to a porn star.
The Republican, who is running for president again in 2024, has denounced the probe as a witch hunt and has called upon his supporters to take to the streets. However, his false claims of winning the previous presidential election had led to his supporters storming the U.S. Capitol building on January 6, 2021, causing a deadly riot.
Addressing reporters at a press briefing, Adams warned Trump supporters against turning to violence on Tuesday, saying the city was "not a playground for ... misplaced anger," reported Reuters.
"Although we have no specific threats, people like Marjorie Taylor Greene - who is known to spread misinformation and hate speech - has stated she's coming to town. While you're in town, be on your best behavior," said the Democratic mayor.
The Republican U.S. congresswoman from Georgia said on Twitter on Sunday that her protest would be lawful and that she rejects anyone who incites or commits violence. Greene said she would lead a pro-Trump protest at a park near the Manhattan courthouse on Tuesday.
Although there have been no credible threats reported, the mayor of New York City stated that the New York City Police Department would intensify security measures on public transit and increase police presence around the Manhattan courthouse where Donald Trump is scheduled to be arraigned, according to Reuters.
The mayor also mentioned that roads would be closed around the city on Tuesday, and a court official has confirmed that courtrooms located on higher floors of the courthouse will be closed shortly before Trump's expected arraignment at 2:15 p.m. (1815 GMT).