SACRAMENTO POLICE DEPARTMENT News Release
		Release #06--21-03b June 21, 2003 For Immediate Release
						Media Office 916-433-0808  Capt. Sam Somers Sgt. Justin Risley, PIO PIC Audrey Lee     Internet: www.sacpd.org

The following is an update by the Sacramento Police Department related to the USDA Conference.  The below listed events occurred this morning, June 21, 2003.

* At approximately 7:00 a.m. uniformed officers stopped to investigate a subject who was illegally camping in the lot on the northeast corner of 12th and C Streets.  While talking to the subject, the officers observed numerous hard clay projectiles (approximately 2 1/2“ in diameter) on the ground and a two gallon bucket full of nails that were within a few feet of the subject.  Nobody at this location claimed ownership, however two subjects alleged that these projectiles were used for planting.  The officers collected the projectiles and booked them into police property for safe keeping.

 In follow-up contacts with individuals concerned about the collection of the projectiles, police department officials volunteered to assist with the planting of the projectiles.  We also advised them about our safety concerns regarding the potential uses of these projectiles.

 In a subsequent media display and demonstration with one of these projectiles, an approximately ½" diameter rock was found to be inside.  This rock imbedded in the foam board that was used during the demonstration.    See photos of confiscated clay projectiles below.

*  At approximately 9:23 a.m., we received a call to a paper graphics business in the 1000 block of Vine Street regarding 60-70 protesters who were marching in front of the business.  Upon officers arrival, the complainant advised that the protesters were trespassing on his property and he wanted them to leave.  After officers contacted the protesters, they voluntarily left the property.
 
 
 
 
 

Individual clay projectile shown for scale.

Two boxes of confiscated clay projectiles.