August 21st 2024.
The second night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago took a tumultuous turn as violent clashes between protesters and police resulted in the arrest of at least 55 individuals. The situation was described by Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling as "a danger to our city."
According to Snelling, the clashes occurred outside the Israeli Consulate, roughly 2 miles away from the United Centre where the convention was taking place. He stated that the protesters had come with the intention of causing harm and destruction. "We did everything we could to de-escalate the situation," Snelling said during a press conference. "But there comes a point where de-escalation becomes repetitive and ineffective."
The confrontations between pro-Palestinian protesters and officers began shortly after the demonstration began, as some protesters dressed in black and covered their faces charged at a line of police. Despite several attempts by the police to contain the situation, the protesters were able to break through and continue their march. However, they were eventually penned in by police in riot gear multiple times throughout the night, preventing them from dispersing.
Snelling stated that the protesters had come to "fight with the police." He emphasized that while the police did not initiate the violence, they were forced to respond to it. As a result, between 55 and 60 people were arrested, with two sustaining minor injuries and two officers also being injured but refusing medical attention to stay with their fellow officers. Snelling also mentioned that three journalists were among those arrested, although he did not have information on their charges.
"This was a dangerous situation for our city and our citizens," Snelling stated firmly. "As the Chicago Police Department, it is our duty to protect our residents and their property, and that is exactly what we did last night."
The Israeli Consulate has been a hotspot for protests since the beginning of the war in Gaza, and demonstrations during the DNC have been largely focused on opposing the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, the group behind Tuesday night's protest was not affiliated with the coalition of over 200 groups that have organized permitted rallies and marches, including one on Monday and two more planned for Wednesday and Thursday.
Another rally, organized by the US Palestinian Community Network, is set to take place on Wednesday afternoon near the United Centre. The protesters have chosen the slogan "Make it great like '68," in reference to the anti-Vietnam War demonstrations during the 1968 Democratic National Convention.
Snelling addressed this comparison, stating, "It's 2024 now, and the Chicago Police Department has proven that. Let's move on from 1968 and focus on the present."
The majority of arrests took place towards the end of the night, as police blocked the demonstrators from leaving a plaza, leading to accusations of "kettling," a tactic that is prohibited under a federal consent decree. However, Snelling denied these allegations and commended his officers for their handling of the situation.
He also addressed criticism that the police response was excessive, stating, "We wanted to overwhelm those who came to our city with the intent to destroy it. However, overwhelming does not mean excessive. Our response was proportionate."
Despite the tense situation, Snelling expressed his pride in the work his officers were doing to keep the city safe. He also mentioned that some female officers were subjected to offensive and sexually explicit comments but stood their ground and continued to do their job.
Meanwhile, a man wanted on murder and armed robbery charges in Mississippi was taken into custody after a standoff with police at a nearby restaurant. However, there was no indication of any connection to the convention.
In other news, Donald Trump held his first outdoor rally since his assassination attempt, and police raided Andrew Tate's home following allegations involving minors. Stay updated on the latest breaking news, celebrity gossip, and sports news by following our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm, and no personal information will be shared.
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