Emails released by the city of Baltimore detail just how little a grasp city officials had on the situation during the riots that followed the death of Freddie Gray.
Perhaps the most damning tidbit from the over 7,000 emails released was the devastation brought on to local businesses due to a curfew enforced from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. in the week following the riots.
WHO TV reports that the National Aquarium in Baltimore lost over $500,000 by adhering to the curfew, while the Maryland Science Center conducted about 10 percent of its normal business during that time.
To her credit, Baltimore mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake wanted the curfew lifted early,but Maryland governor Larry Hogan wouldn’t allow for that.
The emails also revealed that Baltimore police were ill-equipped to handle the riots, and that they were waiting for riot gear while just standing by, allowing the destruction of Baltimore to unfold before their eyes.
Emails also revealed that Rihanna was barred from playing a free show in Baltimore, because yeah, the city definitely didn’t need to boost morale at that time or anything.