Police said the move Wednesday is designed to protect the public.
SEATTLE — Seattle police converged on the city’s “occupied” protest zone early Wednesday after Mayor Jenny Durkan issued an executive order for protesters to vacate the area.
People have occupied several blocks around a park and the Seattle Police Department’s East Precinct for about two weeks after police abandoned the building following standoffs and clashes with protesters calling for racial justice and an end to police brutality.
Police said the move Wednesday is designed to protect the public. Protesters in the Capitol Hill neighborhood responded with chants and calls to leave them alone.
“Since demonstrations at the East Precinct area began on June 8th, two teenagers have been killed and three people have been seriously wounded in late-night shootings,” Seattle police said on Twitter. “Police have also documented robberies, assaults, and other violent crimes.
“Because suspects in recent shootings may still be in the area, and because numerous people in the area are in possession of firearms,” they said.
Officers will be equipped with additional protective gear as they attempt to clear the streets.
KUOW radio reported that by 5:30 a.m., police had made at least 10 arrests.
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Seattle police converged on the city’s “occupied” protest zone early today after Mayor Jenny Durkan issued an executive order for protesters to vacate the area https://t.co/c76CLSM8w2
— POLITICO (@politico) July 1, 2020
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