Denver Protests 'Hijacked By Criminal Elements': U.S. Attorney

DENVER, CO — A Federal Bureau of Investigation task force is investigating protests that have turned destructive in Denver after George Floyd died in police custody in Minneapolis. In a statement released Sunday, U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn said Denver's peaceful protests have been "hijacked by criminal elements, who have turned these protests into violent riots."

"While we can and should peacefully advocate for our beliefs, no one may incite a riot, start a fire, or injure other people in the process," Dunn's statement reads.

An FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force has been deployed to Denver to charge those who violate federal law, Dunn said. The task force is working with the U.S. Attorney's Office in Colorado to investigate cases of violence and vandalism.

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Highly-trained agents and investigators from federal and local law enforcement agencies are on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, Dunn said.

"Where violations are identified, prosecutors from my office will hold violators accountable to fullest extent of federal law," Dunn's statement reads.

"Anyone planning future acts of violence should know that our law enforcement community is united in protecting Colorado, and we will do so."

Hundreds of protesters ignored the curfew Saturday and Sunday night in Denver and clashed with police. Many protesters were seen throwing Molotov cocktails, fireworks and rocks at city buildings and officers over the past four days. Police have confiscated assault rifles, handguns, crow bars, baseball bats and other weapons, the city said. Windows have been broken on many public and private buildings, which have also been covered in graffiti.