Baltimore Police Stopped Rihanna From Benefit Freddie Gray Concert

According to reports, Rihanna attempted to have a free concert for Freddie Gray, but was prevented by Baltimore police.

Freddie Gray is the 25-year-old African American male that was slain by six BPD officers in April.
Rihanna tried to go to Baltimore the week after the city uprising and protesting, but internal police emails have been released showing police opposed the show.

The UK Sun revealed that in a May 1 email Captain Eric Kowalczyk had a conversation with a representative of Rihanna. In the convo, the rep stated Rihanna would come to the embattled city in non-traditional ways “in an effort to divert press/media she will be traveling to the city by train (or by car if necessary)”.

According to The Sun, “The email was forwarded to Anthony Batts, the then Baltimore police commissioner, and Kevin Harris, a spokesman for the mayor of Baltimore, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.”
Ultimately, when the concert went up the chain, it was shot down. “Possible Rihanna Concert at Penn & North,” it read. “No time given. Police are claiming they have no permit so it will not be allowed.”

Through social media, Rihanna has supported movements to support victims of police brutality.