A protest in the South Park Blocks area of Portland, Oregon, attracted several dozen people and saw the establishment of around 20 encampments, as reported by the Portland Police Bureau (PPB).

Formation of the Protest

The event unfolded on Thursday afternoon when the PPB received information via social media about plans for an encampment in the South Park Blocks. Later that evening, a group began assembling in the 1800 block of Southwest Park Avenue, just south of Southwest Montgomery Street. The participants started erecting tents and setting up barricades.

Police Intervention and Response

Park rangers informed the group that the South Park Blocks, including Southwest Park Avenue, closed at 9 p.m., and regulations prohibited the construction of structures in the park. However, the group persisted, and additional individuals joined in. At its peak, the gathering comprised several dozen people with approximately 20 structures in place.

Although no arrests were made, the PPB deployed officers from all three precincts to ensure the safety of the group. However, this deployment impacted the police’s ability to respond to other calls, resulting in extended response times for non-emergency situations.

Dispersal of the Protest

Around 1 a.m., law enforcement officers cleared the park, allowing individuals to retrieve their belongings. However, most tents had to be removed by the PPB as they remained unclaimed.

City’s Stance on First Amendment Rights

In a statement, the PPB emphasized the city’s commitment to upholding First Amendment rights while maintaining peace and order. The city anticipates further gatherings, acknowledging the potential for changes in the situation. The statement reiterated the city and the police bureau’s support for peaceful assembly, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by individuals engaging in property damage and other criminal activities during such events.

Decrease in Stolen Cars Reported

In a separate development, Portland police reported a significant decrease in the number of cars reported stolen in the city, indicating a positive trend in law enforcement efforts.

The article, originally reported by KPTV-KPDX in 2024, underscores the ongoing challenges and efforts to balance public demonstrations with maintaining public safety and order in Portland, Oregon.

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