23 Protesters Arrested in New Haven After Sitting in Roadway

NEW HAVEN, CT — Police arrested 23 protesters after they took seats in the middle of roadways at two locations.

The groups wore signs protesting sexual harassment at Yale University.

Police blocked traffic on several downtown streets.

"Concerned for the protester’s safety, New Haven Police blocked traffic on several downtown streets.," said Officer David Hartman, police spokesman. "The groups gathered at York and Elm Streets and College and Grove Streets chanted at their sit-in and after approximately 30 minutes, voluntarily got up, walked to two waiting officers and were issued their summons to court. Each person was charged with disorderly conduct. Traffic was flowing there by 10:00 a.m."

The demonstration was organized after negotiations between the university and graduate students stalled, according to the New Haven Register.

"At College and Chapel Streets, three of the protesters opted to be taken into custody, despite being offered a summons," Hartman continued. "They and the five others were similarly charged with disorderly conduct. The three taken into custody were additionally charged with interfering. Several among those arrested thanked officers for their professionalism and courtesy during the arrest process. All affected roads were reopened by 10:15 a.m."

Update: Police originally said that 16 protesters were arrested and then corrected the number to 23.

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