“Police on scene continue to issue dispersal orders. Officers have made approximately 10 arrests at this time. Anyone seeking to exit the area can still do so to the south, toward Pike Street,” police said via Twitter before later adding: "Three additional arrests at 12/Pike."
The police also announced that an armed group was approaching law enforcement officers. They also warned that anyone who remains in the area is subject to arrest.
Due to ongoing violence and public safety issues in the East Precinct/Cal Anderson Park area. Mayor Jenny Durkan has issued an executive order to vacate the area. Seattle police will be in the area this morning enforcing the Mayor’s order. https://t.co/SpVRYIB8eg pic.twitter.com/JAt2AvUTCr
— Seattle Police Dept. (@SeattlePD) July 1, 2020
Commenting on the current situation, the Seattle police chief stated that the Capitol Hill Organized Protest (CHOP) has become "lawless and brutal," citing four shootings and other violent acts in the area.
On 8 June, Seattle police withdrew from the Capitol Hill district, while leaving the Department's East Precinct building behind, as an act of "trust and de-escalation” after days of clashes with demonstrators.
