Chicago prepares for 2012 protests

CHICAGO, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said Wednesday he wants more security and tougher fines ready when expected protesters arrive for next spring's NATO and G-8 summits.

Emanuel introduced an ordinance that would permit police to deputize law enforcement personnel and bring in other law enforcement agencies. It also would hike the current $25 to $500 fine for resisting or obstructing a peace officer to $200 to $1,000 for each offense, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.

Chicago has a 13,000-member police force.

The NATO and G-8 summits will be held at the sprawling lakefront McCormick Place exposition center May 15-22. The events, which were actively sought by Emanuel, forced the annual National Restaurant Association show to be rescheduled.

Emanuel told the City Council protesters' rights would be upheld but the ordinance would close public parks, playgrounds and beaches between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. to prevent camping.

"What is out there is an angst about the middle class and working middle class holding onto their economic security for themselves and their children," Emanuel said. "And the people have the right, which I believe firmly in, of expressing themselves. Their First Amendment right needs to be protected and that will never be infringed on.

"I also correctly have the right … to enforce the law and to protect the law. Both of those will be done correctly."