'Don't demonize them': Chicago's new mayor-elect says it's 'not constructive' to vilify group of rowdy teens that torched cars in rampage organized on social media - but condemned the chaotic takeover

Daily Mail UK ^ | April 17, 2023 | Hope Sloop

[Morgana]

Chicago's mayor-elect said the city should not demonize the teens who organized a 'Teen Takeover' of the Loop over the weekend, even after the event turned violent with cars burnt cars and minors shot.

Brandon Johnson, 47, said Sunday he does not 'condone the destructive activity' and that it's 'unacceptable and has no place' in Chicago, but that it should not be used as a way to vilify the group.

'However, it is not constructive to demonize youth who have otherwise been starved of opportunities in their own communities,' said Johnson, a progressive Democrat.

Shocking footage showed some teenagers jumping on top of a bus while others started a massive brawl after descending on Millennium Park and attempting to breach barricades.

Gunshots rang out with rounds striking two teenage boys aged 16 and 17 who were reported to be in stable condition as of Sunday. Cars were also left vandalized near East Washington Street in the Windy City, including a Tesla which is worth about $120,000.

Johnson is the mayor-elect, and is a former union organizer who has called for new taxes and more social programs in Chicago.

The situation began Saturday when a crowd of more than a hundred rowdy teenagers turned violent as dozens torched and smashed cars while blaring music.

In total, 15 people were arrested including nine adults and six children.

Despite the outrage over the violence and destruction, Johnson said he thinks the only path forward is to 'work together' to give kids safer spaces.

[Morgana]

"Despite the outrage over the violence and destruction, Johnson said he thinks the only path forward is to 'work together' to give kids safer spaces. "

How about you just give him a good old fashion ass whipping?

[RetiredTexasVet]

Didn’t think it was possible to find someone dumber than Beetlejuice .... just proves there is no bottom limit to stupid.