The pair shared messages in 2017 and 2018 that were joking at times, but also raise concerns that police give Patriot Prayer and members preferential treatment, even though they have been involved in violent clashes with antifascist protesters.

Wheeler said Thursday that he was concerned because it was exactly those demonstrations led by Gibson that "have caused significant disruption and increased fear in our community."

The mayor also said the texts "appear to cross several boundaries" and "raise questions about whether warrants are being enforced consistently and what information is being shared with individuals who may be subject to arrest."