This is a guest post from freelance environmental writer Tom Schueneman, who also publishes GlobalWarmingisReal.com

A Police State in Minneapolis and St. Paul?

Using the the phrase “police state” could seem a little incendiary in itself, but the rash of house raids and questionable arrests taking place all over Minneapolis and St. Paul in the past few days is chilling.

I first heard about it from a friend living in Minneapolis last Saturday, who sent me some links and video of the aftermath of the police raids on at least four houses in the area.

Dressed in full SWAT gear with assault rifles drawn, the police referred to themselves during the raid with pseudonyms such as “terminator” and “the executioner” – I guess for that full “SWAT” effect.

Occupants where handcuffed and forced to lay on the ground while police confiscated computers, personal journals, and other common household items (that theoretically could be used to make bombs – have you looked around in your garage lately?).

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Some of those detained say the police refused to show a warrant until after they were done raiding the houses.

The only reason given for this thug-like police action from the Ramsey County Sheriff, FBI, and Minneapolis police is a “suspicion of conspiracy to commit riot”.

To be clear, “protest” is not “riot”. Freedom of speech and of assembly are guaranteed in the 1st amendment to the Constitution – unless, perhaps, you’re just a bit too close to the Republican Convention.

The Sustainable Living Bus is Goin’ Down

On Saturday evening, in an act of confused jurisdiction, Minneapolis police pulled over the “Sustainable Living” bus in St. Paul. The bus is fully licensed and legal in the state of Montana. Several other law enforcement agencies were involved in impounding the bus and detaining its passengers.

When asked how the Minneapolis police could be involved in a “common traffic stop” in St. Paul, the answer was “we’re all working together”.

Working together to accomplish what? Impound a bus full of peaceniks from Montana spreading the word of non-violence and permaculture?

When asked on what ground the bus was being impounded, riders were told that the “warrant would be executed later”.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned in the past eight years, it’s that those currently in power don’t cotton too well to any sort of protest or civil disobedience – legalities and constitutions be damned.

Take that Sustainable Living Bus!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/v/Mh4iv3k1feU&hl=en&fs=1]

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Police have thus far arrested at least 200 protesters and journalists. Find out more at Theuptake.com

More information on the police activities from local press

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