MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A video posted to social media shows the National Guard surrounding a Tennessee sandwich shop that refused to serve law enforcement agents on Sunday.
The video, which has circulated on social media, has drawn criticism as law enforcement agents are seen standing in front of Da Sammich Spot in Memphis, unwilling to leave the property despite protests.
“I have no idea what made them make that choice. I pulled up as a business owner asking them to move their vehicle from right in front of my door, and 60 seconds later, it was 40 National Guards outside,” said Owner Rob Brown of Da Sammich Spot.
“As a business owner, it’s my right to let those people know that I did not want them here. Regardless of whether they liked it or not, they needed to move,” said Brown.
One man who filmed the situation called it a clear violation and an intimidation tactic.
“For them to completely ignore a business owner’s request to get off the property, that’s sending a message that we don’t care about your rights,” said Hunter Demster.
“You saw the National Guard flood in, you saw MPD flood in to protect themselves. They looked out for them. Not your average Joe,” said Demster.
“This is normal. This is living in the city of Memphis as a Black man,” said Brown.
The whole situation lasted a little over 30 minutes, with the Guard and law enforcement eventually leaving without making any arrests.
Rob Brown told NewsNation affiliate WREG he is experiencing PTSD as a result of the situation and said he has not been contacted by law enforcement since.
WREG reached out to the Memphis Police and the U.S. Department of Justice for a comment on this situation and has not heard back.