Harrison Thorp 6:38 a.m.
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 6:36 am

Gov. Sununu, seen here at a recent press briefing, said New Hampshire is ready to handle any protests that might occur across the state today. (Jeffrey Hastings photo)

CONCORD - While saying he believes the message of peaceful protests decrying the killing of a black man by police in Minneapolis last week is a worthy one everyone should recognize, Gov. Chris Sununu said on Monday that destruction of property and violence will not be tolerated in New Hampshire.

Speaking against the backdrop of social media and "dark web" chatter suggesting organized rallies today in major cities across the state, Gov. Sununu said he welcomes peaceful protests but will have all security assets in place, including State Police and National Guard Troops, if things begin to get out of hand.

Speaking at what was scheduled to be a COVID-19 update, Sununu said that they had learned of nonspecific threats of rioting in Manchester and Nashua, but that other posts seemed to encourage demonstrations across the state.

"We're a small state," Sununu said. "We'll be prepared in every city and town."

He said some posts are encouraging violence.

Meanwhile, Dover Police Chief Bill Breault wrote a letter condemning the death of George Floyd on Monday.

Published on the opinion page of The Rochester Voice, Breault said what happened in Minneapolis is totally out of step with his department's values and enforcement protocols.

"What we saw occur in Minneapolis is not only completely against the mission, vision, and values of the Dover Police Department, but also the training, tactics, and professionalism with which our officers serve the community each and every day," Breault said.