Police removed several people from the Broome County office building after a mass protest at a meeting of the legislature.

The start of the session Thursday afternoon was delayed as dozens of people chanted and expressed concern about conditions at the county jail.

Although some arrests were made, it appeared there were no physical confrontations between protesters and officers.

A protester holds a sign before the Broome County legislature's meeting. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
A protester holds a sign before the Broome County legislature's meeting. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Protesters also expressed opposition to a measure that would permit fines or jailing of people who annoy, alarm or threaten the personal safety of police or other first responders.

Binghamton Progressive Leaders of Tomorrow had announced plans for an "Annoy the Police" rally to call attention to jail deaths and alleged abuse at the facility in the town of Dickinson.

The event was also to focus on "the attempt to censor those who annoy or criticize local police."

Those who filled the meeting area were advised that everyone would have to be seated for safety reasons.


Broome County security officers, assisted by Binghamton police, Broome County sheriff's deputies and New York State Police troopers took several people from the legislative chambers.

Police vehicles outside the Broome County Office Building in downtown Binghamton. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
Police vehicles outside the Broome County Office Building in downtown Binghamton. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Those arrested were taken to a waiting Binghamton police van to be transported to the station for processing.

Several people were being processed on various charges at police headquarters Thursday evening. The number of those being charged was not immediately available.

A Binghamton Police Department command post vehicle on Hawley Street on November 21, 2019. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
A Binghamton Police Department command post vehicle on Hawley Street on November 21, 2019. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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