Photo: Scene of 3rd night of protests in L.A.; KABC-TV
More than 180 people were arrested—and one officer was hospitalized—during the third, consecutive night of protest over president-elect Donald Trump, according to an KABC-TV news report.
For the third straight night, protestors took to the streets, leaving a visible wake of property damage and graffiti in several areas of downtown Los Angeles.
And once again, an LAPD officer was injured while trying to effect an arrest. The unidentified officer was transported to the hospital in stable condition, with unknown injuries.
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This incident follows a similar one from the night before, whereby another officer was attempting to make an arrest, and had his handcuffs and gun taken from him.
Sgt. Barry Montgomery of the LAPD, reported that besides a busy night involving more than 180 arrests: “We did have one officer when trying to take someone into custody—that officer was transported to a local hospital. At this time, he’s in stable condition and he’s expected to be released later today,”
LAPD Sgt. Jack Richter provided a matter-of-fact perspective on the matter, said: “There’s going to be a lot of graffiti. There’s going to be some damage to some buildings, some vehicles, and I will tell you, even to the psyche of the city itself.”
Richter also resonated a much-needed voice of reason, adding that: “It’s really unfortunate that individuals feel they have to damage other people’s property in order to voice their opinion on a political election.”
Likewise, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck issued a statement on Twitter regarding the protest, and summed up the matter for protestors who commit vandalism:
“Your 1st amendment right to freedom of speech is a cherished privilege that should be exercised. However, destruction of property and vandalism will not be tolerated. Exercise your rights responsibly and respect our city.”
