ASBURY PARK, NJ – A night of peaceful protesting in Asbury Park ended with violence after protesters ignored the police departments’ request to disperse. An Asbury Park Press reporter covering the protest was caught in the mix and arrested by police. Moments earlier, Asbury Park Police and protesters marched with solidarity. At one point, Asbury Park Police officers even took a knee to show their support for the protest.
Asbury Park officials had set an 8 pm curfew ahead of the protest. When protesters refused to disperse, the situation on the ground changed.
“I was arrested during the protest against police brutality in Asbury Park earlier tonight. I was just released from the Belmar PD headquarters with a summons for failing to obey an order to disperse,” Gustavo Martinez, a journalist for the newspaper.
The arrest of a journalist even caught the eye of Attorney General Gurbir Grewal.
“Last night, an Asbury Park Press reporter was arrested while covering protests. I know that officers face enormous challenges while maintaining order during a chaotic situation. But I’ve discussed this matter with local authorities and they will be dismissing the charge today,” said Attorney General Gurbir Grewal.
Protesters and Asbury Park police take a knee together. pic.twitter.com/tbASXZYsDn
— Gustavo Martinez (@newsguz) June 2, 2020
Protesters have been asked to leave twice since 9:30 p.m. but some remain here. Some say they’re going nowhere. https://t.co/sGfSssI4AQ
— Gustavo Martinez (@newsguz) June 2, 2020
Only an hour after the cops kneeled with and hugged protestors. After hundreds of people were crying, screaming, and pleading with the police to hold themselves accountable #AsburyPark pic.twitter.com/gUHpLYcepB
— karina (@quinoa__cowboy) June 2, 2020