Philadelphia: No crackdown on Democratic convention protests

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Officials in Philadelphia say they have no plans to crack down on protesters lacking permits during the Democratic National Convention next month.

City officials tell the American Civil Liberties Union in a letter that permit requirements will remain in effect for the July 25-28 convention, but "there is no intended 'crackdown' on un-permitted protesting."

The letter says the city is "committed to ensuring that people can exercise their First Amendment rights."

Officials say no permits will be granted for demonstrations in Philadelphia's Center City during rush hour.

But they say permits will be considered for marches down Broad Street, Philadelphia's major north-south artery that runs past City Hall to the sports complex miles away where the convention is to be held.

Tens of thousands of protesters are expected.