9 arrested after demonstration leaves PPB precinct vandalized
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Nine people were arrested Wednesday night after a demonstration at the Portland Police Bureau’s North Precinct resulted in vandalism, officials said.
A crowd of around 50 people engaged in a demonstration outside the building at 449 NE Emerson St at about 7 p.m. Police said people initially “chanted and banged on pots,” with officers observing from a distance.
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About 20 minutes into the demonstration, “numerous people” then approached the main entrance, allegedly tagging windows and “newly painted walls.”
“PPB members moved in and made targeted arrests. At this time, many in the crowd retreated, but they returned to the main entrance minutes later,” police said in a release.
Nine people were arrested after a demonstration at PPB’s North Precinct resulted in vandalism. July 25, 2024 (courtesy Portland Police Bureau). Nine people were arrested after a demonstration at PPB’s North Precinct resulted in vandalism. July 25, 2024 (courtesy Portland Police Bureau). Nine people were arrested after a demonstration at PPB’s North Precinct resulted in vandalism. July 25, 2024 (courtesy Portland Police Bureau). Nine people were arrested after a demonstration at PPB’s North Precinct resulted in vandalism. July 25, 2024 (courtesy Portland Police Bureau).
The crowd was once again cleared from the building and tape was put up. Police said they then told the crowd people may be arrested if they crossed the line into the closed-off section.
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“A short time later, the tape was ripped down and people entered the prohibited area. PPB members made several additional arrests. Eventually, the crowd disbanded,” police said.
The nine people arrested are accused of an array of charges, including trespassing, interfering with a peace officer and criminal mischief. One of the people arrested was allegedly carrying a concealed weapon and faces a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
KOIN 6 News asked the Portland Police Bureau what the demonstration was about. In response, a PPB spokesperson said they have a policy “not to get into why people are demonstrating — we can’t interview all attendees to verify that.”
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In a statement, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler — the police commissioner — said he supports people’s “right to exercise free speech” but that those choosing to “engage in criminal activity” during demonstrations can’t be tolerated.
“Those vandalizing local businesses and properties are hurting all Portlanders,” Wheeler said. “I am working with local and state public safety partners to ensure that people who are involved in this kind of criminal conduct are held accountable.”
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