Scottsboro Businesses Prepare for Protest

By B.A. Little, Reporter • beverlyannette@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — As rumors circulate about possible out-of-town citizens causing destructions amidst protests on Saturday, and in an abundance of caution, businesses around the square in Scottsboro are boarding up their stores. Hammering could be heard all around the square as preparations are underway in downtown Scottsboro. 

A resident commented, “This just doesn’t happen in a small town like Scottsboro. This is a peaceful little town.”

In a statement earlier this week, Mayor Shelton said, “Scottsboro is our home and we can’t destroy it with riots, destruction, and violence.”

“However, based on all of the social media discussions surrounding this protest, and in the interest of the safety of the individuals in our community, we are recommending that retail businesses in downtown Scottsboro close at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2020,” he continued, “We also want to let you know that the Scottsboro Police Department and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office will be present downtown and will monitoring any activity. They will be there to ensure that the businesses located downtown are protected as well.”

“The City of Scottsboro and I want you to know that we are here to protect you. We are trying to be as proactive as possible to prevent any damage coming to any individuals or businesses on the square on Saturday,” Mayor Shelton concluded.