An Incident Command Team stepped into action at a recent demonstration, managed by a Crowd Management Incident Commander. This team included Dialogue Liaison Officers (DLOs) and a Rapid Response Team (RRT), along with the Air Support Unit and a PPB Sound Truck for effective communication.
DLOs, identified by their white shirts, serve as liaisons to demonstrators without enforcing the law. The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) clearly states in their Directive 810.10 that they do not engage in immigration enforcement. Their primary focus is on public safety and the enforcement of state laws.
At roughly 8:15 p.m., officers noticed traffic backing up as demonstrators moved onto the street. To keep everyone safe, DLOs asked the crowd to step back onto the sidewalk. An officer used the Sound Truck’s loudspeaker to relay this message.
While most complied, two individuals continued to resist, exchanging aggressive remarks and using amplification devices. The RRT intervened and arrested two men:
- Thomas Wayne Allen, 36, from Portland
- Cortez Carl Williams, 34, from Portland
Both faced charges of Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree. Notably, Allen had a can of chemical spray and a collapsible metal baton with him.
The PPB kept a close watch on activities during the evening. While tensions flared, the police presence and targeted arrests helped prevent physical confrontations from escalating. It’s important to understand that police actions aren’t solely limited to arrests made at the scene; investigations can continue long after the event, with cases forwarded to the Multnomah County District Attorney for prosecution.
Social media played a role in keeping the public informed. PPB used their official channels to announce updates, ensuring community awareness and safety.
According to a study by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, effective crowd management requires not just a strong police presence, but also communication and community engagement. By utilizing strategies like liaison officers and sound trucks, the PPB is aiming to create a safer environment for everyone involved.
For more on PPB’s Public Order teams, visit their official site.