Portland officials defend police actions
Sunday, November 13, 2011
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- City officials are defending police officers' use of batons against Occupy Portland protesters while clearing out their camp.
Mayor Sam Adams and police officials spoke at a news conference Monday, a day after police used their batons to push a cluster of demonstrators from a park they had held since Oct. 6.
Assistant Portland Police Chief Larry O'Day said use of batons was necessary to make a deliberate push through the park.
At least one demonstrator was hospitalized after being dragged away by police. A total of 51 protesters were arrested.
Police Chief Mike Reese says some officers were hit with bottles and even an open knife during a confrontation with demonstrators. One officer was injured by an unknown projectile. Reese said it was not the knife.
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Portland officials defend police actions
