Thread by @SalemPoliceDept

#salemoregon, due to activities expected at the @OregonCapitol today be aware there may be pedestrian congestion in the area. If poss, avoid traveling thru streets around the capitol mall. Anyone observing criminal behavior should immediately move to a safe location & call 9-1-1.

#salemoregon UPDATE at 1415
1⃣/4⃣: Protest events at the @OregonCapitol have increased in size/risk to public safety. There are approximately 150-200 participants that are heavily armed at the capitol at this time.

2⃣/4⃣ The risk of violence has increased as the opposing protestors are expected to arrive in large numbers. We have received reports that vehicles driving past the capitol are being struck with balloons filled with paint and green lasers being pointed at drivers.

3⃣/4⃣ We are advising residents/visitors to avoid the capitol mall area. For those in the area, please remain cautious/aware given the circumstances. @ORStatePolice, @mscointheknow + SPD are monitoring the situation and prepared to act in the interest of the public’s safety.

4⃣/4⃣Anyone observing criminal behavior should immediately move to a safe location and call 9-1-1. Please continue to monitor #salempolicedept social media channels for further updates.
#salemoregon

#salemoregon UPDATE at 1542 Audible announcements: You are participating in an unpermitted event and blocking Court ST. Exit the roadway and obey all laws. Failure to do so may result in arrest. Stay on the sidewalks and exit the roadway.

#salemoregon UPDATE at 1550
Arriving opposing protestors were diverted away from the @OregonCapitol. @ORStatePolice and SPD crowd management teams are moving the capitol area protestors onto the mall grounds and off Court ST.

#salemoregon UPDATE at 1615: #trafficalert
Traffic congestion on Center and Capitol STS NE due to protestors in the roadway. Street is being cleared by crowd management teams. Drivers should take another route.

#salemoregon UPDATE at 1645:
Traffic congestion on Center & Summer STS NE due to protestors in roadway. Audible alerts being given to protestors to exit roadway. Failure to do so may result in arrest.

Motorists: Avoid the streets around the @OregonCapitol for the time being.

#salemoregon UPDATE at 1710
Summer ST at Center ST NE now open; however, police activity continues as audible warnings to protestors are being given. Those who are committing criminal acts are being arrested.

Motorists: Avoid streets around the @oregoncapitol for the time being.

#salemoregon UPDATE at 1800:
Activities have come to conclusion as protestors have left the area.

Our thanks to the many partner agencies that assisted with handling the protest activity and the criminal conduct of a several individuals.