As tensions continued around the ICE facility in Portland’s South Waterfront this weekend, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) kept a watchful eye on demonstrations on Saturday. An Incident Command Team was activated to manage the situation, with resources such as Dialogue Liaison Officers (DLOs), the Rapid Response Team (RRT), and Air Support Unit (ASU) at their disposal. According to the City of Portland’s official release, the DLOs, identifiable in white shirts, were present not for enforcement but to facilitate communication between the PPB and protesters.
Amid the protest, a report of an assault led to the arrest of one Harold Alston Smith, 32, who now faces a charge of Assault in the Fourth Degree. The victim, Brian Wesley Crowell-Drogt, 33, wasn’t just on the receiving end; he, too, was cited for Assault in the Fourth Degree and is expected in court within thirty days. These incidents marked the 49th arrest in relation to protests in this area since they started in early June.
The PPB underscored that their involvement does not extend to immigration enforcement and reiterated their dedication to public safety and upholding state laws. Through an official statement, they confirmed ongoing efforts to monitor protest activities and deal with any criminal acts accordingly. The bureau mentioned that although arrests might not occur immediately during high-tension moments, charges can still surface following investigations…