Critical Mass demonstration results in arrests

August 30, 2002 00:00

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Critical Mass Demonstration Results in Citations and/or arrests

On August 30, 2002, Portland Police Officers from Southeast Precinct, Central Precinct and the Traffic Division, monitoring the monthly Critical Mass Rush-Hour Bicycle Ride, issued at least 27 citations, and detained, and are attempting to identify at this time, nine riders for criminal charges, including Disorderly Conduct, Assault in the Fourth Degree, Interfering with a Police Officer, and False Information to a Police Officer.

During the course of the event, officers deployed pepper spray on at least three separate occasions, and used taser on one combative suspect. Three monitors from the Independent Police Review Office were present during the entire event. Several officers were spit at by bike-riders, at least one officer was assaulted, rocks were thrown at officers and their vehicles, and one police motorcycle was pushed over during the incident.

Prior to the ride, police passed out flyers to at least 180 members of the Critical Mass Ride informing them that officers would take enforcement for violations of the law. This evening's enforcement occurred because several prior Critical Mass Rides have resulted in numerous reports of criminal activity, including property damage, theft and actions that have violated traffic laws and endangered both bike-riders and motorists.

Officers estimate at least 200 bike-riders participated in the ride. No confirmed injuries have been reported at this time.

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Public Information Officer:
Sgt. Pete Simpson
Peter.Simpson@portlandoregon.gov
Desk: 503-823-0830
Pager: 503-790-1779

Alternate PIO:
Lt. Mike Marshman
Michael.Marshman@portlandoregon.gov
Desk: 503-823-0010
Pager: 503-790-1779

Portland Police Bureau
1111 SW 2nd Ave, Suite 1526
Portland, Oregon 97204