United States Capitol Police have released a statement condemning the actions of anti-Israel protesters who stormed DNC HQ on Wednesday night; “We have handled hundreds of peaceful protests, but last night’s group was not peaceful,” the statement says.
Full Statement Below:
Last night approximately 200 people gathered in front of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters to protest the conflict in the Middle East.
We have handled hundreds of peaceful protests, but last night’s group was not peaceful. The crowd failed to obey our lawful orders to move back from the DNC, where Members of Congress were in the building.
When the group moved dumpsters in front of the exits, pepper sprayed our officers and attempted to pick up the bike rack, our teams quickly introduced consequences – pulling people off the building, pushing them back, and clearing them from the area, so we could safely evacuate the Members and staff.
Six officers were treated for injuries, from minor cuts to being pepper sprayed to being punched.
24-year old Ruben Arthur Camacho of Woodbridge, NY, was arrested for Assault on a Police Officer after an officer witnessed Camacho slam another officer into a garage door and then punch the female officer in the face.
Last night our team was quick, decisive, courageous and in control.
When demonstrations cross the line into illegal activity it is our responsibility to maintain order and ensure people’s safety.
Despite six officers being treated for injuries, it’s being reported that only one arrest was made.
“Tonight 6 officers were treated for injuries – ranging from minor cuts to being pepper sprayed to being punched. One person has been arrested for assault on an officer. We appreciate our officers who kept these illegal & violent protesters back & protected everyone in the area,” Capitol Police said in a post on X.
Tonight 6 officers were treated for injuries – ranging from minor cuts to being pepper sprayed to being punched. One person has been arrested for assault on an officer. We appreciate our officers who kept these illegal & violent protesters back & protected everyone in the area.
— The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) November 16, 2023
Watch clips from the protest below:
Capitol Police attacking pro Palestine protestors at DNC headquarters in DC pic.twitter.com/3XGK4JHBgJ
— HOT SPOT (@HotSpotHotSpot) November 16, 2023
“We are outside of DNC demanding they have a ceasefire for the ppl of Gaza & this is how they treat us?”
Outside DNC 1.5 hours ago shortly after police attacked protesters#FreePalestine #AlShifaHospital pic.twitter.com/jwo1JdgkV2
— #StopCopCity (@ChuckModi1) November 16, 2023
Why are the “MAGA Republicans” doing this to the DNC headquarters?
— ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) November 16, 2023
— ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) November 16, 2023