Protest: June 1, 2020

Summary

In the wake of the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer, large-scale protests decrying police brutality and demands for police reforms were seen throughout the nation. Although most demonstrations were peaceful, some included assaults on police officers, burning of police department buildings, looting, fires, and other criminal activity.

On May 31, 2020, Walnut Creek experienced a major incident where 39 businesses were vandalized and looted. The seven hours of civil unrest resulted in the arrest of four subjects and the implementation of an emergency curfew for the City of Walnut Creek. Social media posts called for further civil unrest in Walnut Creek on June 1st and looting.

Based on the May 31st looting incident and social media posts calling for further civil unrest in Walnut Creek, the operational plan was developed with an emphasis on “high police visibility” during the June 1st demonstration.

Seven arrests were made during the June 1 protest for various violations including assault with a deadly weapon, resisting arrest, and curfew.