They examined the sequence that produced the event.

Cole had promoted an inflammatory rally after cross burnings and threats had already raised tensions.

The gathering was publicized in language designed to provoke racial hostility.

Authorities had warned of danger.

That history mattered to the legal case.

Cole’s defense emphasized that he had rented the property and claimed the right to hold a rally.

He argued that the Lumbee crowd was responsible for disrupting the meeting and that law enforcement failed to protect it adequately.

The prosecution argued that Klan leaders had helped create the dangerous situation in the first place.

The jury convicted Cole and another Klansman on riot-related charges.

The verdict did not mean every action by every person at Hayes Pond was legally approved.