SPOKANE, Wash. — The Spokane Police Department arrested 11 protesters on Saturday evening for ignoring orders to disperse in downtown Spokane.
The scheduled ‘No Kings Protest’ drew a crowd estimated in the thousands to Riverfront park around 5:00 p.m. on June 15, according to SPD.
Dialogue officers from the SPD Tactical (TAC) Team maintained open lines of communication with protest organizers throughout the day.
As the protest continued into the evening, SPD officers warned protesters to stay out of traffic to ensure the safety of drivers and people downtown Spokane.
SPD said by 8:00 p.m., the crowd of protesters had decreased, but those remaining were asked again to leave the roadways.
Dispersal orders were issued at 8:44 p.m. when protesters continued to block the road.
At this point, SPD said protesters directed challenges and aggressive behavior towards the officers.
At 8:58 p.m., SPD began arresting protesters for failure to disperse.
Out of 11 total arrests, one individual faces vandalism charges related to spray painting City of Spokane property.
Officers deployed inert smoke and pepper balls at the feet of those refusing to leave the roadway shortly after 9:00 p.m.
A curfew was never in place Saturday night.
SPD said they communicated with leadership at River Park Square Mall to direct people leaving the mall toward the south entrances.
SPD said they did not order evacuations at the mall.
“The Spokane Police Department fully supports the right to peaceful protest and remains committed to protecting that right while ensuring the safety of everyone in our community. Your officers worked tirelessly throughout the day to facilitate a safe demonstration and maintain open dialogue with organizers,” Chief Kevin Hall said. “While the vast majority of participants were cooperative, we had to act when safety, including that of the demonstrators, was at risk. We will continue to review our actions to ensure they reflect our values of professionalism, accountability, and respect for Constitutional rights.”
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