WASHINGTON DC—On Wednesday, November 15, a protest that ensued outside the Democratic Party (DNC) headquarters located at 430 Capitol St. SE, turned violent.
On November 16, the U.S. Capitol Police (USPC) made the following statement regarding the violence that ensued on November 16 resulting in the arrest of one Ruben Arthur Camacho on charges of assault against a peace officer.
“Last night approximately 200 people gathered in front of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters to protest the conflict in the Middle East.
We have handled hundreds of peaceful protests, but last night’s group was not peaceful. The crowd failed to obey our lawful orders to move back from the DNC, where Members of Congress were in the building.
When the group moved dumpsters in front of the exits, pepper sprayed our officers, and attempted to pick up the bike rack, our teams quickly introduced consequences – pulling people off the building, pushing them back, and clearing them from the area, so we could safely evacuate the Members and staff.”
Six officers were treated for injuries, from minor cuts to being pepper sprayed to being punched.
24-year-old Ruben Arthur Camacho of Woodridge, NY, was arrested for Assault on a Police Officer after an officer witnessed Camacho slam another officer into a garage door and then punch the female officer in the face.
“Last night our team was quick, decisive, courageous, and in control.
When demonstrations cross the line into illegal activity it is our responsibility to maintain order and ensure people’s safety,” the USCP press release stated.
Protests were reportedly organized by the IfNotNowMovement that according to their website is run by Jewish Americans advocating, “To end US support for Israel’s Apartheid System,” which is racial segregation similar to what existed in South Africa at one time.
Multiple reports indicate that the demonstrators issued conflicting reports and that when USCP officers attempted to move protesters back behind a barricade, the officers were peppered sprayed, and other unarmed protesters were also reportedly attacked.
Protesters allegedly accused police of brutality while some of those injured were working security either with USCP or another neighboring police force.
There were multiple injuries outside in the demonstration area reported. DNC lawmakers present at the DNC headquarters for another meeting including, House Minority Leader, Hakeem Jeffries were evacuated without harm.