Portland One Of 'Most Politically Violent Cities:' Union Chief

PORTLAND, OR – The head of the Portland Police Association says that the city has become "one of the most politically violent cities in America" and wants the city council "to quit sitting on their hands." Daryl Turner posted the message on the association's website under the headline, "Line in the Sand."

Turner's statement comes as Portland has been dealing with increasingly violent protests.

Two weeks ago, a driver who was trying to turn to avoid an unscheduled march downtown was chased by protesters who attacked his car.

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On Oct. 13, four people needed medical treatment after a violent erupted between the left-wing group, Antifa, and members of the right-wing Patriots Prayer.

Police said after the march that protesters on both sides had been well-armed with guns, knives, batons, and more.

"Lawlessness, aggression, and violence have replaced peaceful protests," Turner says in his message. "In a harshly divided nation, we have become a stark example of what happens when fringe groups get exactly what they ask for with their grandstanding – attention."

Turner says that city officials need to "openly and collectively decry the violence and destruction forced upon the many and caused by a few.

He adds that people "who endanger or victimize others should be held accountable for their actions.

"Our officers and our community face those who believe they can harass, assault, and victimize Portlanders at will with no threat of arrest, indictment, or conviction. Our job as law enforcement is to protect the public and enforce the law."

While the mayor has not responded to Turner’s comments, he has been pursuing the possibility of the city imposing new restrictions on protests held by groups with a history of violence.

The mayor has acknowledged and others have expressed concern that the changes could infringe on people's First Amendment rights.

Photo of Daryl Turner via Portland Police Association