Minneapolis Police: Group vandalized MPD precinct building, shot fireworks at officers
Vandalism to Minneapolis Police Department's 5th Precinct on Aug. 15, 2020.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The Minneapolis Police Department reports that a group of people vandalized the 5th Precinct building and shot fireworks at officers late Saturday night.
According to police, at about 10:10 p.m., officers witnessed about 50-60 people marching toward the 5th Precinct on the 3100 block of Nicollet Avenue South. Officials said it "appeared peaceful at first, but the group became violent upon arriving at the precinct."
People threw rocks at the building, damaging a window. The group also threw paint on the building and shot commercial-grade fireworks at officers. No officers were injured.
The group fled before more officers arrived on the scene.
In statements, both Mayor Jacob Frey and City Council Vice President Andrea Jenkins said destruction wasn't the solution to issues surrounding policing.
"I condemn the destruction of property and call for peaceful resolution to the very real issues that many are upset about," wrote Jenkins. "Our community is understandably in deep pain, but the response cannot continue to be fueled by anger. We must work together to achieve justice for all."
"There is no honor in destroying public property," added Frey. "I am unwavering in my commitment to protecting the First Amendment right to peacefully protest. But these acts are unacceptable and will not be tolerated in Minneapolis."
Statement from Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo:
Last night, individuals marched to the Minneapolis Police Department’s 5th Precinct and proceeded to vandalize the exterior of the building and target officers with commercial grade fireworks. This unlawful and senseless behavior will not be tolerated. Acts such as these do absolutely nothing to constructively engage and activate true and real needed reforms. The vast majority of the men and women of the MPD who continue to come to work each day and night are doing so to keep all our communities safe and make a positive difference. I support them and their efforts working professionally during this pandemic, amidst an increase in violent crime and as we diligently press forward in creating a new MPD in partnership with our communities.
To all those engaging in peaceful 1st amendment protected speech and assembly thank you. To those individuals that make the choice to engage in unlawful and destructive behavior, hijacking peaceful protests, your actions will not be tolerated, and you will be prosecuted to the full extent lawfully.”
- Chief Medaria Arradondo
Vandalism at Minneapolis Police Department's 5th Precinct. Credit: MPD