Portland police declare anti-Trump protest a ‘riot’

PORTLAND – Portland Police said due to extensive criminal and dangerous behavior, a protest against President-elect Donald Trump is now considered a riot.

Police said on Twitter Thursday night they were taking increasing reports of vandalism and aggressive behavior as hundreds of people marched through the city.

People were throwing projectiles at officers at one point and significant damage was done at a car dealership, police said. Multiple news outlets posted videos and photos of vehicle windows smashed out.

Another video showed an altercation after a woman threw laundry detergent at protesters. Police said people were breaking the windows of some businesses Portland’s Pearl district.

Police advised people to discontinue the use of illegal fire devices such as fireworks and said multiple people with bats were reported in the crowd. Protesters carried signs reading, “No racists, no hate” and “Revolt.”

People not wanting to be associated with protesters should leave the area, police said. No arrests had been made as of 9 p.m. but police were advising that people if arrested could face a felony riot charge.

Oregon Department of Transportation officials closed portions of Interstate 5 and Interstate 84 in the area intermittently as a precaution. Officials urged travelers to use caution and watch for people in unexpected places on roads.

Portland Police tweeted to those stuck in traffic near demonstrations to stay in their vehicles, remain calm and refrain from engaging people as they pass by.

Portland Mayor Charlie Hales said earlier in the day he supports the peaceful protest of people exercising their Constitutional rights, but cautioned that walking on to freeways and blocking light rail lines is dangerous for everyone involved.