“It was all very peaceful, until after dark when some individuals stared walking up Main Street,” Birk said. “That is when they started throwing rocks and stuff at several cars coming up Main Street … most of them were juveniles.”
An alert was issued by the department during the late night hours that said: “For your safety, please stay out of the downtown area. We have several individuals throwing rocks at cars in the area of Central and University.”
Birk said he, along with several ministers, were at the police station much of the night. Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers assisted as well.
Birk said he is not aware of any injuries, arrests or large-scale damage.
“When I was there from 5:30 to almost 11, it as a peaceful demonstration,” Birk said.
Birk said the department supports peaceful protests and urges organizers to get permits for any planned in upcoming days.
“They have to go through the right channels. I have told them to contact me,” Birk said “We have assisted before when we have led the march, blocked intersections. And we would be happy to assist, if they get the right permit and it is a peaceful protest. We are fine with it and we support that.”
About the Author
