CLEVELAND — Hundreds of residents took the streets of downtown Cleveland Saturday in protest of death of George Floyd and racial injustices. After approximately 90 minutes of peaceful protests and demonstrations, the event took a violent turn.
A group of protesters outside of the Justice Center began throwing objects at police officers, touching off a wild scene that included three patrol cars being set on fire. Several businesses in the area were also vandalized, broken into and/or looted.
The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department reports that 65 people were arrested in the incidents that followed.
Officials say a majority of those taken into to custody will face charges of aggravated rioting, and or curfew violation.
Officials are working to provide more information on those arrested, the Sheriff's Department reports.
On Sunday, Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish issued the following statement regarding the protests and demonstrations in downtown Cleveland.
“All across our country we have seen peaceful protests turn violent and ravage the communities we hold most dear. In our own downtown Cleveland many businesses, restaurants, and organizations were devastated by the riots last night. Some may not recover. We must remember that this is our community and that business owners of all races are being deeply affected by the destruction of their property. I fully support a peaceful protest and encourage you to express your desire for change. I ask that you remain peaceful and remember that when we riot we harm our friends, families, and neighbors.”
