Posted on 11/25/2014 2:55:01 PM PST by chrisser
CLEVELAND, OH (WOIO) - On Tuesday around 3 p.m., protesters filled Public Square in response to the recent killing of 12-year-old Cleveland boy Tamir Rice and the lack of an indictment in Ferguson, MO.
The growing crowd then walked onto the shoreway, blocking traffic between West 3rd and East 9th Streets. The group is chanting "Hands up! Don't shoot!" They also chanted "No justice! No peace!" and "Whose streets? Our streets!"Chief of Police Calvin Williams is on the scene with multiple units responding.
"People need to remain calm and be peaceful," said Williams.
Protesters have a united front, encouraging others to "link up and stay late." Cleveland Police are along the perimeter, letting it play out. Police have called in a sheriff's bus, among other units, in case of mass arrests.
There is no word yet from the police chief about how long they will let this continue or what the plan is, if any exists. At this time, they are asking drivers to remain in their vehicles as they work to move through the protests.
Around 5:30 p.m., protesters starting leaving the shoreway after blocking traffic for more than an hour. It appears they are headed back to Public Square. Many vehicles stuck in traffic are beeping their support. 19 Action News reporter Dawn Kendrick says the protest is more organized, but still chaotic. Many out-of-towners are involved.
Councilman Zach Reed believes this makes a great teaching moment, emphasizing how people need to obey police orders, such as putting their hands up.
"Young people need to respect police officers," said Reed.
Reed has been a supporter of body cameras for police. He believes every officer should be wearing one.
Rice was shot at Cudell Recreation Center this past weekend by a Cleveland police officer. Rice had a BB gun that had the orange safety indicator removed.
Continue to follow Dawn Kendrick and 19 Action News for more on this developing story.
I will answer myself, the police “slowdown” was in Cincinnati, @ 2002
I’m glad I’m safe in Ft Worth and Dallas!
Ohio Ping
Bring back the ‘68 Chicago PD. They’d have the roads cleared in short order.
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