14 Arrested Amid Mostly Peaceful Protests: Baltimore Officials

BALTIMORE, MD — Protests in Baltimore continued Sunday night for the third day in a row, in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd of Minneapolis in police custody. City leaders and the governor of Maryland thanked the majority for remaining peaceful while taking a stand about an issue that is deeply painful. Officials say they are anticipating additional demonstrations Monday.

"In Baltimore yesterday, we were a national example of what it looks like to engage in passionate protesting without widespread breaking of the law," Mayor Jack Young said at a news conference Sunday. "I can't thank the people of our city enough for their courage in the face of continued pain and anger. While the vast majority of protesters followed the law, we did however have a few incidents of unlawful behavior that we dealt with swiftly."

There were 14 arrests, including 12 adults and two juveniles, said Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael Harrison. Charges included burglary, aggravated assault, attempted arson and failure to obey a lawful order.

Destruction of property was reported at eight locations and burglaries were reported in 11 locations, he said, adding officers saw stolen goods, property damage and vandalism in the downtown area. There was an assault and burglary related to members of the press, he added. Police also faced antagonism.

"While our officers did encounter acts of violence against them, they continued to serve with an unparalleled level of ... tolerance and restraint," Harrison said.

"We will not allow the actions of a few to define what we want to be peaceful protests," Harrison said. "We are aware of additional protests, and will continue to support those wishing to peacefully protest and exercise their constitutional rights."

After 10 p.m. on Sunday, the Baltimore Police Department reported it was monitoring "a small group" of protesters downtown, where officials said most were "demonstrating peacefully."

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan applauded Baltimore for its peaceful protests.

"Last night, Baltimore showed the nation how to assemble to promote positive change," Hogan tweeted Sunday afternoon. "I want to thank @mayorbcyoung, Commissioner Harrison, @BaltimorePolice, @MDSP, and the vast majority of demonstrators for their efforts to keep gatherings safe and respectful."

Harrison thanked the peaceful protesters who worked alongside officers, and the mayor echoed the sentiment.

"I want to sincerely thank the hundreds of protesters who were peaceful," Young said. "In Baltimore, your right to a peaceful assembly will be protected. You have my word on that."

The mayor also vowed to hold people accountable for breaking the law.

"If you are coming here to protest peacefully, we welcome you. But if you are coming here to throw bricks of break storefront windows, or destroy police vehicles, you're going to find yourself in a jail cell. That's a promise," Young said.

"The citizens of Baltimore know how to protest peacefully," Young said. He condemned violence toward people doing their jobs, including members of the media.

"We're not going to stand for mistreatment of the press," Young said. "They will also be protected and allowed to do their jobs."

Many Baltimore residents deescalated tensions, according to Council President Brandon Scott, who was at City Hall for Saturday's demonstrations.

"I saw many Baltimoreans trying to stop people from throwing things and stop conflict from happening," Scott said. "What I don't want is to allow people with no roots in our community ... leading things in our community to be the wrong way."

In a statement Sunday evening, Scott said: "Anyone planning to attend tomorrow's protest with the sole purpose of causing chaos and putting other people in harm's way, especially if you are not from Baltimore, do not come. We do not want to be the ones left to pick up the pieces when it's over and you're gone."

He encouraged people who were part of the peaceful demonstration to continue their efforts.

"Don't let today be the last day. Show up in Annapolis in January when we're fighting for police reform," Scott said.

"While I'm honored to represent all of Baltimore every day as Council President, I am still a Black man in America. I know Black people in America are tired because I too am tired. Our pain and frustration is real, and we have to be able to express that in protest. But we have to stay peaceful and we must stay safe," Scott said in a statement Sunday night. "Baltimore cannot afford to return to normal when normal for so many of us was fundamentally broken and unjust. I will continue to fight for the future our city deserves: one that is just, equitable, and where every resident can thrive."

See Also:

• Baltimore Protests: Police Call For Backup From State
• Baltimore Prepares For Demonstrations After Minneapolis Unrest