New Mexico prosecutor allegedly points out undercover officers at war protest
By LESLIE HOFFMAN, Associated Press
Last Updated 8:12 p.m. PST Tuesday, March 25, 2003
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - A prosecutor who took part in an anti-war rally
was placed on paid leave Tuesday because she allegedly pointed out
undercover officers to fellow protesters.
Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Albright's actions Sunday angered
police, who say she put the plainsclothes officers in danger. Anti-war
activists, meanwhile, argued that undercover police shouldn't attend their
rallies.
Albright, who has worked with Albuquerque police on criminal cases, pointed
out - both verbally and with gestures - at least two undercover officers in
the crowd of about 300 people, officials said.
Albright "was seen pointing directly at the officers and getting others to
see who they were in the crowd," Deputy Chief Ruben Davalos said.
According to a police report, one officer also overheard Albright whisper
to a woman "that we were undercover officers." And several protesters,
after briefly talking to Albright, turned to look at the men, the report said.
With their cover apparently blown, the officers left the rally for safety
reasons, the report said.
Albright's attorney Rachel Higgins denied the accusations and said she may
have been singled out for speaking out against the war. But Chief Deputy
District Attorney Deborah DePalo said Albright had a right to attend the
march, and that the probe would not center on her mere presence at the
demonstration.
Peace activists complained that undercover police at demonstrations
amounted to an "infiltration" and violation of civil rights to assemble
peacefully without harassment.
"I think they're building intelligence on people," said Bob Anderson, a
member of the Committee to Stop the War Machine.
Davalos said police have been out in force, both in and out of uniform, at
anti-war demonstrations because of a small group that has advocated "very
extreme acts."
The practice of assigning undercover officers to large public events - from
speeches to concerts to the state fair - is common and intended to protect
public safety, Davalos said.
"To say we've infiltrated their group is ridiculous when you remember
they're in a public place using a public venue," Davalos said. "It's not
any different from anybody else standing in a crowd."
In a clash with demonstrators last week, Albuquerque police used tear gas
and pepper balls after officers said they were hit with bottles and rocks.
Protesters claim police overreacted.
The Sacramento
Beehttp://www.sacbee.com/24hour/nation/story/827091p-5837373c.html
