zlacker

>>dtagam+(OP)
One related issue, is that right now, in COVID times, unnecessary arrests, jailing, busing, etc. is in some abstract sense an application of potentially lethal force -- since enclosed spaces and close contact makes COVID transmission significantly more likely.

It seems important to understand how much that is happening and where. If that data, in combination with protest size/type data is available, it can help us better understand if protests or police are actually impacting COVID transmission (if either).

If we don't have that data available as case numbers come in, it makes the narrative of blaming protesters much more likely to stick, even if it turns out to be inaccurate later, and e.g. the primary cause is unnecessary police actions.

Is anyone doing this? (Does anyone want to start if not?)

>>avivo+J2
This is something bail funds in Philly track, and I'm guessing bails funds in other cities do too! Many cities committed to some degree at the beginning of the pandemic to reduce arrests / setting bail for minor crimes. (how well they've done that is often a matter of debate).

The situation in local jails became a big issue at the beginning of the pandemic. I would reach out to a bail fund in your city (or read more on their web page) to see if there are useful ways to help their broader mission, which will include protestors :).

Some useful context in this slate article:

https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2020/06/bail-funds-donat...