Dozens arrested after protestors clash with Chicago police near Israel Consulate
CHICAGO — Dozens were arrested as protesters clashed with Chicago police Tuesday night in the West Loop.
The situation unfolded in front of the Israeli Consulate, 500 West Madison Street, where the demonstration was being held.
In a press conference Wednesday, Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said between 55 and 60 people were arrested. Some of those protestors spent several hours overnight in custody.
“It’s time to get a handle on anyone who wants to wreak havoc on this city. People who are committing violent acts throughout the city. It is time to bring Chicago back to where we know it can be,” Snelling said.
Those arrested will likely face a number of charges, including disorderly conduct and battery to a police officer.
Snelling said half of the people arrested are not from Chicago.
“If you’re not complying with our orders at that time, you may be breaking the law yourselves. We need you to cooperate with us so that we can help you. We help each other in this way,” Snelling said.
At least 13 people stood before a judge on Wednesday, including a CPS teacher in her 30s. Others also include a student from Texas and an unemployed man from North Carolina.
WGN-TV has also learned that amid the protests, two people were brought to the hospital for medical treatment – one for knee pain and another for a finger injury.
“To have that number of people taken into custody with two minor injuries, it tells you officers are doing a great job. They remembered their training. They’re not overreacting. And they’re responding the way they are supposed to respond.”
Tensions erupted during demonstrations downtown Tuesday, with protestors coming face-to-face with police.
The chaotic moments put an end to mostly peaceful protests since the start of the Democratic National Convention.
Tuesday’s protest was organized by a group called “Behind Enemy Lines.” It’s goal: to shut down the DNC and call for an end of US aid to Israel.
“Behind Enemy Lines” member, Michael Boyte, was one of the dozens at Belmont and Western Wednesday morning, supporting those being released from custody with things like food, water, legal aid, or a ride home.
“It’s outrageous for there to be a convention with war criminals and the people protesting that are the ones being arrested,” said Boyte.
The group, which calls itself an “anti-imperialist resistance,” was not permitted to protest.
“I don’t think it matters at all. I think there’s a First Amendment right to freedom of expression that doesn’t require a permit,” Boyte said.
Snelling, who’s been out at most protests since the start of the week, said department leadership did give multiple dispersal orders.
“Arresting someone was not our first intent, but at some point, we had to put an end to it,” Snelling said.
Protestors clash with police amid rally outside Israeli Consulate on day 2 of DNC
While protesters claim they were attacked, Snelling said his officers were met with violence.
“Our officers were attacked. We have proof of that and our officers responded proportionately,” Snelling stated.
A woman, who asked we do not identify her by name, said she is not part of “Behind Enemy Lines” – but supports their message.
“As a Jewish person as well, I think it’s just unconscionable everything that’s been done in the name of my people and in the name of our country.”
The woman says she spent at least seven hours in a jail cell, and while it was her first arrest, she said it was worth it for the cause.
“Seven hours of my time doesn’t really mean much compared to the lifetimes that are being taken away.”
Among those arrested, are several journalists.
Independent reporter Talia Jane calls what happened ‘sudden’ and says rather than a clash, she felt it was a sea of blue helmets coming toward people with nowhere to go.
“They’re engaging their First Amendment activity, documenting people engaging in theirs,” said Jane.
A statement from the National Lawyers Guild Chicago Chapter reads in part:
“Assurances that the city would respect people’s First Amendment rights during the convention rings hollow next to this brazenly aggressive approach to free expression.”
Meantime, the Israeli Consulate also shared a statement. In part it says:
“We are beyond disappointed with the ongoing support the mayor has been giving to the anti-Israel protests in Chicago, particularly during the DNC, and his continued disregard for the large pro-Israel and Jewish community in the city.”
The Democratic National Convention in Chicago concluded Thursday night with Vice President Kamala Harris accepting the party’s nomination to the land’s highest office.
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Dozens arrested after protestors clash with Chicago police near Israel Consulate
Chicago has hosted Democrats 12 times, the last being nearly 30 years ago when President Bill Clinton was nominated for a second term.
WGN Cover Story: Why Chicago has hosted more presidential conventions than any other city.
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