During the 2004 Republican National Convention, held in New York City, over a thousand people were held at a concrete pier: Pier 57. It was modified to function as a detention center for groups of demonstrators police expected to arrest. The city installed razor-wire fencing all around the perimeter.

Fast forward to present day Denver, Colorado, site of the 2008 DNC. The city has prepared its own facility: a modified warehouse with interiors broken up into 15’ by 15’ areas surrounded and topped by chain link fencing. Signs clearly state that electric stun guns will be in use.

Already, civil rights organizations are fretting over conditions anticipated detainees will experience, including food and restroom facilities, and the ability to contact attorneys.