Kerwin a "Disgrace" For Blaming Media for Covering Protests, Says Pawtucket Councilman

Kerwin a "Disgrace" For Blaming Media for Covering Protests, Says Pawtucket Councilman

Providence Police Officer and Pawtucket City Councilman Tim Rudd said Providence City Councilwoman Kat Kerwin has “no business being an elected official” after Kerwin said media shouldn’t cover protesters “without their consent.”

Kerwin, who interjected herself in a situation with police in July at a downtown bar known for being critical of law enforcement, responded over the weekend to a Twitter post about a local TV cameraman being assaulted by protesters this week. 

“These protesters are young, working-class, BIPOC,” wrote Kerwin, referring to the acronym "Black Indigenous Persons Of Color."

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“When they are filmed w/o consent their livelihoods are in danger," Kerwin continued. "They risk their jobs and becoming police targets. How about journalists show empathy in reporting instated of getting click-bait story @ expense of black lives?”

Rudd Fires Back

“Ms. Kerwin [you’re] being sarcastic I hope. If not, you have not business being an elected official and obviously have no idea about freedom of the press. Also [you are] are a big supporter of police body cameras correct?? What’s good for the goose is good for the gander,” Rudd Tweeted in response. 

Rudd went on Facebook to further elaborate on his comments. 

“What a disgrace,” said Rudd. “I have stayed away from this topic but to see an elected official in providence supporting assaults of press members, I had to chime in.”

“I feel bad for the residents of Smith Hill. 2 years is right around the corner. Smith Hill taxpayers please stand up. Oh btw she supports a local business that advertises 'shoot a cop with your mind.' Seriously???”

Rudd was referring to Fortnight, which during the riots in June saw owners spray-painted “All Cops are Bastards” on City Hall; it has now moved locations downtown. 

Latest for Kerwin

In May, Kerwin called Providence College racist, after students were filmed gathering off-campus in apparent violation of coronavirus restrictions. 

In July, Kerwin said neighbors should "f--king get over it," when police responded to a noise complaint at Fortnight in Providence, which has anti-law enforcement signs placed in its windows at its now former location. 

This story was first published 9/27/20 1:27 PM