LAWRENCEVILLE – Protesters took to Sugarloaf Mills mall Saturday afternoon to call attention to racial injustices after the senseless death of George Floyd.  Sugarloaf Mills was just one of the many protests that took place around the state. Unlike other protests around the state, this one was mostly peaceful and ended peacefully according to Gwinnett County Police.

The Gwinnett County Police Department said, “At approximately 4:30 p.m. groups of peaceful protesters began to gather at Sugarloaf Mills Mall.” As the crowd began to increase in size, mall management made the decision to go ahead and close the mall.  At that time visitors inside began to disperse.

The crowd had swelled in size to several hundred and the Gwinnett County Police Department along with the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Lawrenceville Police Department, and Sugarloaf Mills mall security were on hand to ensure the safety of the protesters and residents of the area.  

“While the majority of the protesters were peaceful and law-abiding, four individuals were arrested and transported to the Gwinnett County Jail,” Gwinnett Public Information Officer Ashley Wilson reported.

No damage was reported to local businesses, however, two police cars received damage to them.  According to police, no injuries were sustained to either police or civilians.  

“We are thankful that our community could come together tonight to express their feelings and concerns in a peaceful manner.  Citizens can expect an increased police presence throughout the county tonight,” Officer Wilson expressed.

— Staff Reports