Portland Unrest: Protesters Face Police In Another 'Riot'

Authorities in Portland once again declared a protest outside the police union headquarters a "riot" late Monday, July 13, as demonstrators for racial equality and those against police brutality clashed with police for hours.

Around 120 people marched from Kenton Park to the Portland Police Association around 7:30 p.m. Their numbers soon grew to 200, urging officers to use riot gear and surround the one-story building near Campbell Avenue, said the Oregon Live.

At least one protester was immediately detained as police tried to maintain order to the crowd who chanted “George Floyd” and “Quit your job.” The gathering also caused traffic and drivers were advised to find an alternative route.

“Multiple warnings have been provided to vacate the streets or be subject to arrest or force. At least one arrest has been made. Another arrest was attempted and others interfered and struggled with police to free the arrested subject,” the Portland Police Department said in a Twitter post.

Protesters were able to occupy Lombard Street. By 8:50 p.m., the Department again ordered them to vacate the street and added that demonstrators had “threatened physical violence.” One police officer used a baton “to force people to move,” while one person appeared to be detained as authorities tried to push the demonstrators away from the building, said the paper.

The Department also said they saw people throwing items and one of them struck a construction worker. This prompted them to warn that those who throw items at community members are subject to arrest or citation.

“Criminal conduct may subject you to arrest, citation or use of force including but not limited to riot control agents or impact munitions,” it said in a tweet, adding that someone in the crowd tried to light a mattress on fire – another act that will lead to an arrest.

Police declared the gathering to be a riot at 12:15 a.m. and issued a tear gas warning.

“Many are not dispersing per the lawful order. They are subject to arrest, force, tear gas or impact weapons. Leave now!” said the police.

The declaration was repeated as authorities ordered protesters on North Fenwick and Lombard to disperse to the North. They also posted a photo of a police officer who was apparently doused with white paint and showed a large ball bearing and broken glass bottles, said Fox News.