Protestors in Sumter demand the release of Brittany Martin

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– A Sumter mother and local activist has been sentenced to four years in jail for highly aggravated breach of peace this week. Thursday afternoon, racial justice groups were outside the Sumter Courthouse protesting her sentencing.

Brittany martin was charged after comments she made during a protest in 2020 following George Floyd’s death. Martin’s lawyer argued that the sentencing of the crime was too harsh, and that the jury was confused when deciding Martin’s guilt. She began Thursday’s statement by echoing the words Martin spoke that caused her to face charges.

Protestors say Martin was within her first amendment rights to make comments at the 2020 protest.

However, the jury and law enforcement felt that Martin’s comments fell into the category of threats.