DENVER (KDVR) -- The Denver Police Department said it has arrested more than a dozen people after a large protest Tuesday night in solidarity with Los Angeles demonstrators against immigration enforcement operations.
Hundreds of people marched through downtown Denver Tuesday evening from the Colorado Capitol after the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition asked people to stand with protesters in Los Angeles. The protest had been planned to start at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, and according to an early Wednesday morning press release, protestors later in the night, around 8 p.m., attempted to block roadways, including in the area of South Broadway near Interstate 25.
Crowds gather for immigrant rights protest at Colorado CapitolAccording to the press release, officers used smoke and pepper balls, which contain a pepper-spray-like powder, to disperse crowds from blocking the roadways or "deny their access to areas." Police said they did not use tear gas.
Police also said in the press release, "there were numerous reports during the night of protestors throwing rocks and bottles at officers, and multiple reports of tagging/graffiti."
Preliminary information shows police arrested 17 people for investigations, including graffiti, unlawful throwing of projectiles, obstruction of streets and assault.
Here is the full breakdown of arrests, according to police:
Number of ArrestsArrested for Investigation of....3Graffiti1Interference with Police Authority1Unlawful Throwing of Projectiles, Failure to Obey a Lawful Order7Obstruction of Streets, Failure to Obey a Lawful Order2Obstruction of Streets, Failure to Obey a Lawful Order, Interference with Police Authority1Second Degree Assault2Second Degree Assault to a Peace OfficerSource: Denver Police DepartmentPolice said they could not release the names of the people arrested until after 9 a.m. Wednesday. The department also reiterated its compliance with municipal and state law on immigration.
In accordance with Denver municipal ordinance and Colorado law, "the Denver Police Department does not assist with the enforcement of civil federal immigration laws," the department said. "The Denver Police Department remains committed to the safety of all individuals and will continue to cite or arrest individuals committing criminal offenses in our community – regardless of immigration status."
The department also said it does not ask witnesses or victims of crimes about their immigration status.
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