The threat of racially based violence has forced Stratford officials to cancel a previously postponed rally against police brutality.

Councilman Alvin O?Neal organized the rally after accusing Stratford police officer David Gugliotti of using excessive force when he arrested a 15-year-old girl earlier this year. It was originally scheduled for last Saturday, but Mayor Jim Miron delayed the event one week to better prepare police. Several white supremacy groups have since said they plan to hold a counter-rally opposite the protesters.

Miron announced Thursday that the rally would be canceled. O?Neal says he agrees with the decision, saying the city should not give hate groups a stage on which to spread their message. Civic activists say they will still hold the rally, now organized by a local pastor. Miron says Stratford and Bridgeport police will help secure the area.

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