Protesters arrested Tuesday night in downtown Atlanta were determined to create chaos, said Atlanta Police Deputy Chief Celeste Murphy.
The demonstration, promoted online by a group called Atlanta Protest for Justice in response to the shooting Sunday of Jacob Blake by officers in Kenosha, Wisconsin, “never was peaceful and was never intended to be peaceful,” Murphy said.
Eight people were arrested on disorderly conduct and obstruction charges. Murphy said they hurled rocks and fireworks at officers, who dispersed the marchers as they proceeded toward Midtown on Boulevard. One officer was maced, she said, though none were seriously injured
About 100 protesters gathered around 8 p.m. at Woodruff Park. An online flier for the demonstration encouraged demonstrators to “start a riot.”
“We never condone rioting and violence, but this calls for it!” the flier stated. “Justice for Jacob Blake!”
Murphy said police attempted to make contact with protest leaders but were met with resistance.
“We immediately realized it was not peaceful and it turned destructive,” Murphy said.
The demonstrators first headed towards APD’s Zone 5 precinct downtown on Ted Turner Drive, where they first clashed with police after shattering a window and spray painting the side of the building.
A large contingent continued heading north, with some shouting they were headed to the Beltline with an intent to inflict more property damage. Police stopped them just south of North Avenue.
Murphy said police are unaware of any protests scheduled for Wednesday night but are prepared if more unrest develops.
Protests turned violent in Kenosha Tuesday night, where two people were killed and another was seriously injured. Blake was paralyzed and remains in critical condition, according to his family.
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