Someone posting as
Mayor John Fretti of Valdosta responded in a comment to
Leigh Touchton.
Mayor Fretti, please point us to where on the web is the
video you mention. -jsq

Update 12:13 AM 23 April 2011: Mayor Fretti confirms (through three different channels) that this post was by him:

THat was my post. an attempt to reach out and help explain a few things. the video, as was al evidence in the case was exchanged durig the discovery part of the motion. the video should be with that.

I have asked him whether an open records request would produce the video.
Back to the original post. -jsq

With all due respect to Leigh’s version of the arrest – and it is all
on video, it happened in the end by way of self – executing mode. After
repeated requests for the group to relinquish the podium and rose stating
each time that they will not and we “must do what we have to do”. the
Mayor asked if there was any objection from Council or city manager or
attorney if WE allow Chief Frank Simons to approach the crowd and do
what he sees necessary to allow the meeting to continue efficiently and
effectively. There was some discussion and then John Fason (Cmdr.) asked
if anyone wants to go to jail – to follow him. and they all did – no
cuffs, no restraints. Peacefully. That’s it. and all on video for all
to see. With respect to the charges filed, they were old STATE charges and
were ruled out as overbroad and (something else). That was fine. There was
an appeal by the solicitor General and again the old STATE laws were ruled
overbroad and (something else). as they should have been. We have our own
local laws and ordinances now that have been tested strong in court.

and
now here it the Paul Harvey moment…

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