An investigation into one anarchist group involved in protesting the Republican National Convention has revealed that the group discussed, among other things, kidnapping convention delegates. From the St. Paul Pioneer Press:

The self-described anarchist group — whose main goal was to “crash” the Republican National Convention,“ according to its Web site — traveled to or communicated with affinity groups in 67 cities to recruit members and raise money.

Group members discussed the possibility of kidnapping delegates, blockading bridges, using liquid sprayers filled with urine or chemicals on police and throwing marbles to trip police and their horses.

At an “action camp” held from July 31 to Aug. 3 in Lake Geneva, Minn., one member talked of concealing inside giant puppets “materials” that could be used on the street. Others discussed the need for Molotov cocktails, paint, caltrops (devices used to puncture tires), bricks and lockboxes for protesters to lock themselves together.

Erik Oseland, one of the six group members arrested here, produced a video called “Video Map of the St. Paul Points of Interest.“ It included such major companies as Travelers Insurance and Qwest, hotels such as the Embassy Suites and the Crowne Plaza. Also included: the Pioneer Press building.

You know, it just makes me mad to read about things like this and know that these sorts of people dare to claim the sacred protections of the First Amendment for their nefarious deeds.

Americans have fought and died for more than 200 years for the people’s right to peaceable assembly.

These idiots make a mockery of that sacrifice.