http://stlouis.cbslocal.com/2011/10/18/police-worry-as-wall-street-protestors-pine-for-world-series-spotlight/ST. LOUIS (KMOX) – The Occupy Wall Street movement may make a move this week on the World Series.
Facebook chatter from the protesters suggests they are casting their eyes on Busch Stadium, coveting the national media spotlight surrounding the series.
Among the ideas floated among group members online: A massive rally, pitching tents around Busch Stadium or sending a streaker onto the field during the game “to send a message.”
St. Louis Police Major Lawrence O’Toole says police will uphold the protesters’ Constitutional rights of assembly and free speech, but he’s concerned about a “lone wolf” causing trouble.
“There are times that we know that there are certain elements that can get drawn into large protests and other people who have other agendas,” O’Toole said. “
So far, the Occupy St. Louis protesters have kept a peaceful vigil in Kiener Plaza, several blocks from Busch Stadium. A core group of about 20 to 30 have been spending the night in tents. Last week they were joined by hundreds of labor protesters to march through the streets of downtown.
There were no arrests at the march, and so far only ten protestors have been arrested for “violating the park curfew.”
Police know of no threat against the World Series, but are working with the Secret Service to provide heightened security.
The St. Louis Cardinals report they are still awaiting word from the Secret Service and Major League Baseball about what security restrictions fans may encounter with First Lady Michelle Obama attending Wednesday night’s game.
Cards spokesman Ron Watermon says he expects it to be “much less invasive than a Presidential visit.”
But Watermon says there will be some additional security measures. How they will affect fans is unclear. The ballpark will be open three hours ahead of the game on Wednesday to give everyone enough time to get inside.
