Crime & Safety
Worcester Police Investigating Protest Arrest Complaints
The revelation comes after Clark University released its own report looking at student arrests during a June 1 protest in Main South.
WORCESTER, MA — Following an independent report published this week by Clark University, Worcester police say they are investigating complaints made by people who were arrested on June 1 following a clash between tactical officers and protesters in the Main South neighborhood.
The Clark report released this week found credible evidence that four students had been mistreated during their arrests. Several students were injured, and one had her phone stepped on by an officer, the report said. Another one was called a "Fat b----" during her arrest.
In a statement Thursday, Worcester police would only say that the Clark report painted an accurate picture of how protesters behaved on June 1.
"We are conducting our own investigation into the night of June 1, and are looking into allegations made by some students regarding actions taken by police during their arrests," the statement said. "This type of investigation takes place anytime we receive allegations of questionable actions, whether through a formal complaint or media reports. We look forward to completing this process, and remain committed to full and complete accountability."
In total, 19 people were arrested after a group of about 75 people confronted police in Main South. Some protesters threw objects at police, and one man was arrested after he was found holding suspected Molotov cocktails. One officer was burned by a flare fired by a protester, Worcester police said.
The arrests followed a peaceful protest at City Hall over the death of George Floyd.
