SARASOTA (WSNN) – Nearly 2 weeks after sheriff deputies shot and killed a knife-wielding woman in Sarasota, demonstrators, gathered outside the county jail to protest her death.
‘Answer Suncoast’ organized the rally today in opposition to what they say is police brutality.
On August 3rd, deputies shot and killed 63-year-old Adrean Stephenson after she approached deputies with a long filet knife, refusing commands to drop the weapon.
Protesters say the woman was suffering a mental health emergency and authorities could have done more.
Sheriff Tom Knight spoke at the time about the need for additional staff who can better assist with calls involving the mentally ill.
Protestors chanted “Protect and serve, that’s a lie. They don’t care when people die.”
After rallying at the jail, demonstrators moved on to city hall in Sarasota.
