Chicago Clears Jail Space, Boards Up Businesses Bracing For Possible Protests During DNC

The city of Chicago is preparing for mass arrests and protests ahead of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) starting on Monday, clearing jail spaces and boarding up establishments, according to multiple reports.

Cook County Circuit Court Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans announced in July that they would prepare court facilities for mass arrests from protests surrounding the DNC, according to a press release. In case the protests become violent, several local businesses are using plywood to block doors and windows to prevent potential destruction, WGN Chicago reported.

“We know from past experiences something could ensue so we want to be proactive and get ahead of it,” Scott Shapiro, the owner of a Chicago menswear store, told WGN Chicago.

Judge Evans stated in the July press release that the court system will stay open from 8 a.m. to midnight to deal with the cases. (RELATED: Delegate Withdraws From DNC After Police Arrest Him At Protest And Bodycam Footage Releases)

“We have been meeting for weeks with more than 50 people from county, city, state, and federal agencies to prepare for the possibility of multiple arrests,” Evans said in the press release. “We want to make sure the police are able to focus on providing security and that the rights of arrested individuals are scrupulously respected. We thank our fellow government officials and our court staff for their continued cooperation in this important endeavor.”