Authorities are concerned that flash mobs angry at the verdict could use Twitter to organize similar unrest. As we reported last week, a plethora of individuals have promised to stage riots and looting if George Zimmerman is found not guilty. The latest round of controversy focused on popular clothing brand 'Illuminati' – which yesterday tweeted to over a million followers, "The Only Justice for Trayvon Martin is to take the Life of George Zimmerman."
The case already sparked looting by Trayvon Martin supporters last year when gangs of teenagers ransacked a Walgreens in north Miami in reaction to the fact that Zimmerman had not yet been arrested.
Detective Munib Ahmed outlined a plan to calm irate Trayvon supporters via Twitter during last night's meeting, remarking, "What we're concerned about is all the people starting rumors or instigating fights [through social media]. So we're trying to get ahead of the game [and] quell the fight before it starts."
Pastor Michael K. Anderson, of New Jerusalem First Baptist Church in Hollywood also called for Twitter to be used to quell disorder. "They'll hear a lot of [rumors] but they'll know the truth if they're following us [on social media]," he stated.
Numerous prominent voices, including former Chicago cop Paul Huebl have warned that the outcome of the trial will lead to riots that could surpass those seen in the aftermath of the Rodney King beating.