Dueling Pro-Zimmerman, Pro-Trayvon Protests Divided By Cops in Houston

The Houston Police Department has stepped up its presence in the River Oaks area Sunday afternoon in anticipation of violence breaking out at dueling pro-Zimmerman, pro-Trayvon rallies.

The pro-Trayvon rally was organized by community activist Quanell X, who said that the “call to action” is to protest Zimmerman’s acquittal.

“I’m encouraging everybody who marches with us to remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,” said X, “and how he protested. Let’s follow those same instructions. Let’s follow that same legacy. And let’s not do anything that would bring shame to the memory of Trayvon Martin and our cause of justice.”

The counter-protest was organized to show support for the controversial “Stand Your Ground” law that was at the heart of Zimmerman’s murder trial.

While some businesses closed early, some never opened, reports KHOU.com. Still others removed their inventory to avoid looting.

Police Chief Charles McClelland is asking that people do not travel to the River Oaks area.

“Sometimes leaders of protest groups lose control of their groups,” McClelland said. “And sometimes their followers don’t follow the script.”