The Sacramento Police Department is informing our community of a violent protest that occurred in the downtown area in the late hours of July 25, 2020.  This protest resulted in damage to windows, spray paint on property, and debris left in roadways.  One TV news crew was also assaulted and forced to leave the area.  The Sacramento Police Department police helicopter and motorcycle officers were targets of lasers being pointed at them.

At approximately 7 p.m., officers facilitated a peaceful protest where the participants marched from Cesar Chavez Park to the Capitol, where the demonstration concluded.

At approximately 9 p.m., officers observed a separate group of approximately 150 people who had formed inside of Cesar Chavez Park.  This group was wearing all black clothing, protective gear that included body armor, shields, and helmets.  Officers also observed various weapons that included metal pipes and rocks. The group began marching throughout the downtown area.  As the group marched there were reports of vandalism that included broken windows, damage to trees, spray-painting, and objects being moved into the roadway to create hazards. The group also spray-painted security cameras as they marched.

Officers observed one female suspect who was spray-painting City Hall.  This female was arrested by officers later in the night.  The female was found to be in possession of spray paint, body armor and rocks.

The investigation into this incident is still active.  Based on the preliminary investigation, detectives know that protestors attending this march were told to be prepared to use a variety of tactics that could be unlawful.

We urge our community to report any vandalism that occurred.  We will have detectives following-up on these incidents. The Sacramento Police Department would also like to thank the community members who assisted officers with clearing the roadway of debris as the march passed.  The Sacramento Police Department is committed to protecting our community and will continue to monitor demonstrations to ensure the safety of all involved. 

The Sacramento Police Department encourages any witnesses with information, or surveillance footage, regarding this incident to contact the dispatch center at (916) 264-5471 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357). Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000.  Anonymous tips can also be submitted using the free “P3 Tips” smartphone app.