New fence erected after DNC protesters enter security perimeter
Officials erected another fence near the DNC at the United Center after a group of protesters dismantled parts of the barrier and carried away the panels.
CHICAGO – Security measures at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago were tightened on Tuesday after a group of protesters broke through a fence and entered a secure area on the first day.
Authorities began erecting additional fencing on Washington Boulevard and Wood Street, about two blocks from the United Center, where the convention will take place through Thursday.
The protesters did not get very far and the DNC events were not disrupted.
Workers added a second level of fence and began construction of a second story. To hold the fence in place, additional anchors and locks were installed.
What began as a peaceful demonstration turned chaotic and dangerous during a DNC-related march Monday afternoon.
Just an hour before the march began, Chicago Police Commissioner Larry Snelling told reporters, “We are not afraid. There have been no incidents.” But that changed after 3 p.m.
Protesters steal fence in front of the United Center
Protesters stole loose fences after breaching the security perimeter outside the Democratic National Convention.
According to reports from FOX 32 crews, one man used a sledgehammer from his backpack to demolish the perimeter fence. Others broke down gates and jumped into restricted areas. Troublemakers were seen throwing sticks and rocks at police, and cameras recorded another man charging at police before being arrested.
By 6 p.m., 100 Chicago police officers stood shoulder to shoulder and evacuated the park.
Snelling, who was on the scene, confirmed that at least four people had been arrested. The city opened a makeshift courthouse where the protesters were taken to appear before a judge.
The former Cook County District Court in the 2400 block of West Belmont Avenue has been reactivated to handle a possible increase in arrests during the DNC.
This was done at the request of the Chicago Police Department and the City of Chicago in preparation for an increased number of legal proceedings should mass arrests occur during protests.
Provisional court to hear arrests of DNC protesters
The city of Chicago is taking swift action against protesters attempting to enter the secure perimeter of the Democratic National Convention. Several people were arrested on Monday when protesters breached the fence surrounding the United Center.
DNC Related Links
Chicago DNC: Several people arrested during protest chaos in front of the United Center
Protesters in Chicago broke through a security fence outside the United Center on Monday as thousands inside prepared for the first night of the Democratic National Convention.
