Columbus Statue Protest Results In Injuries, 12 Arrests

CHICAGO — A clash between police and protestors who tried to tear down a statue of Christopher Columbus in Grant Park Friday resulted in injuries and 12 arrests, police said.

A protest march down Columbus that started peacefully became a violent scene about 4:20 p.m. Police said some "members of the crowd turned on the police." About a dozen people were arrested, according to a news release.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot issued a statement issued a statement that accused a "portion of the protestors" of coming to the protest with "frozen water bottles, rocks, bottles, cans and other gear to throw at officers," along with fireworks and "other incendiary devices."

"These violent acts are unacceptable and put everyone at risk," Lightfoot said.

The mayor also referred to the "several reports of excessive force by the police" as "unacceptable.

"I have spoken to the director of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, and she has assured me that COPA stands ready to address these complaints and will ensure that each of these is dealt with and investigated. We will not spare any resources to do so," Lightfoot said in the statement. "If you believe you have been mistreated by the police, then I urge you to file a complaint through COPA or by dialing 311."

Video posted on social media appeared to show a police officer punching 18-year old activist Miracle Boyd in the mouth, a blow that knocked out some teeth.

The ACLU of Illinois director Colleen Connell said images showing Chicago police respond to protestors with "excessive violence and chemical agents" demand a "full, public accounting."

"Batons, physical force, and chemical sprays were used indiscriminately – against everyone, including those who wished to express their opposition to a statue at that location, legal observers, and journalists reporting from the scene. This type of violence is the very reason that thousands in Chicago – and millions across the country – have taken to the streets to protest police violence against Black people," Connell said.

"It is most disturbing that police thought violence against protestors, legal observers, and journalists was a measured reaction to protect a statue."

At least two journalists reported being physically confronted by police while reporting from Grant Park as the chaotic scene unfolded.

CBS 2 reporter Marissa Para posted video on Twitter showing a police officer using a baton to knock her phone out of her hand while reporting live from the protest scene.

Block Club Chicago photographer Colin Boyle accused a police officer of assaulting him during the protests in a tweet that included a video of the altercation.

Statues of Columbus have been targeted for removal by activists who condemn the Italian explorer for his mistreatment of indigenous people upon his arrival in North America in 1492.

Ald. Daniel LaSpata Tweeted his support for taking down the statue of Columbus.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot said that her administration has been working on a plan to complete a "comprehensive review of our public icons to identify which should change, and where we need new monuments and icons to be erected to ensure the full, robust history of our city is told."

"The details of that plan are forthcoming, but please know that we hear and take seriously these questions," the mayor said in a statement.