Fact Check: when the looting starts the shooting starts

Fact Check: "When the looting starts, the shooting starts"

What We Know

The phrase "when the looting starts, the shooting starts" was originally used by Walter E. Headley, the police chief of Miami, Florida, during a press conference in December 1967. Headley made this statement in the context of addressing crime in Miami, particularly focusing on what he described as "young hoodlums" taking advantage of the civil rights movement. Headley’s approach was characterized by a "get tough" policy, which included the use of shotguns and police dogs, and he was unapologetic about accusations of police brutality (Wikipedia).

The phrase gained renewed attention when President Donald Trump tweeted it in May 2020 in response to protests in Minneapolis following the death of George Floyd. Trump's use of the phrase was flagged by Twitter for "glorifying violence" and was criticized by various politicians and civil rights groups (NPR). The president later claimed he was unaware of the phrase's racially charged history, stating that he intended it as a factual statement about the consequences of looting (Washington Post).

Analysis

The historical context of the phrase is significant. Walter Headley used it during a time of racial unrest and civil rights protests, and it was perceived as an endorsement of violent policing tactics against African American communities (New York Times). The phrase was also reportedly used by other segregationist figures, such as George Wallace, further embedding it in a racially charged context (ABC News).

The reliability of the sources documenting this history is strong. NPR, the New York Times, and the Washington Post are reputable outlets known for their rigorous fact-checking and reporting standards. Additionally, the Wikipedia entry on the phrase provides a comprehensive overview, citing multiple credible sources and historical records.

Critics argue that Trump's use of the phrase, given its history, was a dog whistle to those who support hardline stances against protesters, particularly in the context of racial justice demonstrations. However, Trump's clarification attempts suggest a lack of awareness or acknowledgment of the phrase's historical implications.

Conclusion

The claim that the phrase "when the looting starts, the shooting starts" has a racially charged history and was used by President Trump is True. The phrase originated with Miami police chief Walter Headley in 1967 and was used in a context that promoted aggressive policing tactics during a period of racial tension. President Trump's use of the phrase in 2020, despite his claims of ignorance regarding its history, aligns with its historical use and the controversy surrounding it.

Fact Check: when the looting starts the shooting starts