City leaders say race not an element in Christian, Newsom murders

The murders of Channon Christian and Chris Newsom have been a tragedy for the Knoxville community.Advertisement

They have also become a hot topic for hate groups all over the country, with some making the claim that the crimes were racially motivated.

However, Police Chief Sterling Owen, IV says race did not play a role in the killings, and city leaders say they just want to keep the peace and assure a fair trial in Knoxville. All are concerned by threats from some white supremacy groups to hold rallies in Knoxville to protest the crimes.

City leaders acknowledge the groups have First Amendment rights, and say that only one application has been submitted for a rally to demonstrate against race-related crime in Knoxville.

http://www.wbir.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=45338&provider=gnews

City leaders acknowledge the groups have First Amendment rights, and say that only one application has been submitted for a rally to demonstrate against race-related crime in Knoxville.

However, no permit was actually necessary for that rally because it's supposed to take place on public property, and wouldn't interfere with traffic.

White supremacy websites and WBIR.com's comments section have suggested that other rallies might be held in Knoxville this weekend and next month.

Those who support the rallies say the crime hasn't received fair attention as a race-related incident.

-Jim