TEWKSBURY – Police Chief Ryan Columbus reports that the Tewksbury Police Department plans to summons 18 individuals to face charges in connection with a protest that included defacing a sign outside of Raytheon Technologies.
On Wednesday, Jan. 17, at approximately 6:52 a.m., Tewksbury Police were notified of a large group of protesters blocking traffic outside of Raytheon, on Apple Hill Drive at North Street.
Officers arrived to find a large group of protestors blocking traffic and preventing employees and vendors from entering the facility. Protestors were speaking out against the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Their actions impeded traffic, including school buses.
Tewksbury Police worked to de-escalate the situation and ensure that vehicles could enter the facility. While on scene, Raytheon security also pointed out that protestors had splashed red paint over a company sign at the entrance.
Protesters left the area on their own.
The Tewksbury Police Department has identified 18 protesters. Upon reviewing the damage and carefully considering the behavior of protestors, police will seek summonses for protesters to face charges of defacing or damaging property and disorderly conduct. All 18 suspects will be scheduled to appear in Lowell District Court at a later date. They will be identified once they have been arraigned in court.
“We respect everyone’s right to peacefully protest in a public place, but in this instance several laws were broken, and we will hold those who violate the law accountable,” said Chief Columbus.
The investigation remains active and ongoing as Tewksbury Police attempt to identify additional protesters.
These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.