Protesters in Zuccotti Park may be free spirits, but they’ve decided they need some rules all the same.
And if you dare break them - you’re out.
The group has formed its own security detail to enforce a code of ethics mapped out during their general assembly meeting Monday.
“If you want to be part of our group, you have to be civilized,” said Paul Isaac, 45, who is part of Occupy Wall Street’s security team. “Unfortunately, some people come to disrupt the peace.”
The list includes rules against stealing, sexual harassment and hurting others - including their feelings. The group also put a ban on fuel, weapons or drugs in the park.
“Basically, we want people to respect one another,” Isaac said.
We want to stay on message. We don’t want people who want to add fuel to the fire, he added.
Victims are told to report any violation to the security team, who will decide whether the person should be kicked out of the park or reported to the police.
“A community this size will have its stress and strains,” said protester Bill Dobbs, noting recent arrests in the park.
Garfield Leslie, 19, was arrested Oct. 22 for trying to sell cocaine and brawling with protesters. One of his pals was later arrested for intimidating a witness.
Dobbs said that such behavior shouldn’t blacken the image of the protesters.
“People care for one another but people don’t see that,” he said.
Self-regulations will not distract occupiers from the big picture, protesters said.
“The history books will say ‘They occupied Wall St.’ Not ‘Somebody Stole Somebody’s Backpack,’ ” said Kia Moyer-Sims, 19, who has been here since day 1 of the occupation
from Oregon.
Meanwhile, police denied a report by Daily News Op-Ed writer Harry Siegel that suggested officers have been directing homeless people to Zuccotti Park when they are caught drinking in other areas of the city.
“That’s not to say that individuals without permanent residences are not attracted there on their own,” said Paul Browne, chief spokesman for the NYPD.
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