Several protesters arrested after flag-burning protest at Republican National Convention
Cleveland Police Department
Several protesters at the Republican National Committee in Cleveland were arrested on Wednesday following an attempted flag burning near the convention hall.
According to the Cleveland Police Department, firefighters extinguished and later confiscated a flag that a group of protesters were attempting to destroy.
The department claimed that two officers were assaulted and left with minor injuries.
As it appeared to escalate, police quickly formed a line, forcing the protesters and members to clear the street where the protest was taking place.
https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/755862291019657217
Police giving orders to clear the area. pic.twitter.com/Dmwt7LWADP
https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/755866897107812352
LIVE on #Periscope: Live Update E. 4/Prospect #RNCinfo https://t.co/KRM24Ky6is
https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/755863968657399809
Huge police presence outside gates to convention as protesters tried to light stuff on fire. 10 taken to police van. pic.twitter.com/OisR71mApl
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Man detained at protest as crowd and unrest build outside #RNCinCLE https://t.co/WMQBqXfIbp
In typical RNC fashion, the protest had its share of bizarre factions.
https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/755853483417403393
Someone here is playing a loop of Alex Jones on a megaphone. Mix of many protest groups here.
Though the police responded swiftly, the event may have been slightly overblown.
Some observers on the ground noted that members of the media likely outnumbered protesters.
While many observers feared that the convention would be marred by protests, most have largely been peaceful so far.
The police department has been responsive, swiftly deploying riot police and firefighters repeatedly at even the slightest signs of violence that have largely failed to materialize.