Police Fear RNC Protesters Will Camp Out On Foreclosures
TAMPA (CBSMiami) — Tampa-area police are asking residents to keep a watchful eye for people "camping out" on foreclosed or vacant properties.
Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office spokesman Larry McKinnon says thousands of out-of-town protesters are expected to come to the area for the Republican National Convention.
McKinnon says some might try to pitch tents in the backyards of the area's many foreclosed homes or break into empty commercial buildings.
Deputies are urging people to call authorities if they see any odd activity, including the pitching of tents, homemade flags or anarchist graffiti.
McKinnon says officers aren't concerned with protesters who are staying in campgrounds or the yards of friends and family.
The Republican National Convention will be held in downtown Tampa from Aug. 27-30.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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