Aug 17, 2008 2:18 pm US/Mountain
Protest Groups Picket At 'Gitmo On The Platte'
Written By Rick Sallinger
DENVER (CBS4) ―
Convention protest groups aren't happy with what they call a "clandestine" detention center. It's a warehouse filled with makeshift jail cells to be used if there are mass arrests during the Democratic National Convention.
Protesters gathered at the site Friday. They think the conditions will be inhumane. They say the warehouse wasn't even fit for the voting machines it once housed. But the sheriff's department says the facility will actually speed up the time many of those arrested will have to spend in custody should laws be violated at the convention.
Since its existence was revealed protesters have likened the facility to a prison camp.
"We don't need another Gulag or Stalag or prison or whatever you want to call it," protester Larry Hales said.
The city and county says it is not a detention center. It is only to speed up the processing of those who are arrested during the convention.
"We don't anticipate large numbers of arrests, we think we are going to have a wonderful convention here," Bill Lovingier with the Denver Sheriff's Department said. "We would be remiss if we didn't plan for larger than normal arrests. That's what this site does."
Earlier this week CBS4 showed the warehouse has been converted into a series of cells topped with razor wire. There's a sign that warns of the presence of stun guns.
"We don't need those threats already. We are already going to be put inside of cages for doing nothing more than exercising our constitutional rights," Glenn Spagnuolo with the protest group Recreate '68 said.
"Typically you would have participants from both sides that would be arrested," Lovingier said about the razor wire. "We have an obligation to keep them safe. So we don't want people climbing fences and assaulting each other."
Air conditioners now stand outside. Water, bathrooms, medical staff and phones will be available. The city says no one should be there more than a few hours.
Those arrested will be taken to the facility and processed. If they make bond they'll be released at the Denver County Jail. If not, they'll be housed there or in a neighboring county while they await their appearance in court.
Mayor's Office News ReleaseMayor John Hickenlooper's office sent a
news release to CBS4 and other media explaining the purpose of the holding facility. It says there will be a community outreach program this week to explain the facility's function.
Other DNC News: 
Man Dead, Large Amount Of Possible Cyanide Found In Denver Hotel Ahead Of DNC, Terrorism Task Force Investigates
Gloria Neal's DNC Blog Gloria Neal has the
latest buzz surrounding the Democratic National Convention and how it will affect your life here in Colorado.
Additional Resources • For complete coverage of the planning for the 2008 Democratic convention in Denver, as well as information about how to volunteer and for a list of helpful links, visit the Democratic National Convention section.
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