The Sacramento Police Department provided police resources for the city council meeting on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Due to an anticipated larger than normal attendance, additional officers were assigned to the meeting to ensure the safety for all members of our community and council in attendance. During public comment, some attendees in the audience continued to shout and cause disruptions preventing council from continuing. Just after 9:00 p.m., following numerous warnings about the disruptions, the Council’s Presiding Officer called for a recess and ordered the chambers to be cleared.

Numerous protesters remained in the council chambers, refusing to comply with the order. At approximately 10:40 p.m., additional officers entered the council chambers, and unlawful assembly and disbursement admonishments were given. All but twelve of the protesters left on their own accord. The remaining individuals who chose to stay in the chambers and disobey the lawful orders to disperse were arrested for unlawful assembly and failing to disperse and were booked at the Sacramento County Jail.

The Sacramento Police Department reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rights of individuals to peacefully assemble and express their opinion, while also maintaining public order and the safety of our community.