Presidential contender Donald Trump and his campaign cannot be charged for allegedly inciting a riot in a North Carolina rally where one of his supporters dealt a physical blow to one loud protester. The Sheriff's office issued this statement after investigations led them to conclude that there was not sufficient evidence for a conviction.
CBS News reports that the violent altercation happened in the Fayetteville rally on March 9, as Rakeem Jones was being led out of the auditorium. John Franklin McGraw, a 76-year-old follower of the Republican frontrunner, was caught on video hitting Jones. Ronnie Mitchell, a lawyer for the Cumberland County Sheriff's office, said after the incident that an investigation was launched to determine if Trump or any in his circle had deliberate intent to foment disorder or stirring a riot.
Under North Carolina law, instigating a riot is tantamount to a group of two to three people creating a public disturbance that will result in personal injuries or property damage.
The Los Angeles Times said that after reviewing the evidence gathered, the Sheriff's office concluded that no law had been violated. No other charges are anticipated to be brought against Trump and company. Trump issued a statement that he will pay for McGraw's legal services.
Chron adds that violence has marked Trump's rallies as he continues his campaign throughout the country. His supporters fuel that reputation by standing unapologetically by their violent behavior. In a TV interview, McGraw admitted that he enjoyed hitting Jones who allegedly deserved the injury for his supposedly un-American conduct. He also said that "they might have to kill [Jones] the next time they see him."
Despite his denials, Trump encourages this combative attitude. In one Iowa rally, he rallied his supporters to "knock the crap" out of his protesters. In exchange, the billionaire will pay for their legal fees.
