A protest Monday night outside a Maple Grove hotel rumored to be housing federal agents prompted a police response from multiple agencies.
Maple Grove police said officers responded to reports of a protest at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott on the 11600 block of Arbor Lakes Parkway around 8 p.m.
The protest escalated when participants allegedly began throwing things at officers and damaging property, according to police.
A dispersal order was then issued, and 26 people who did not leave were arrested, police added. Those people face charges of gross misdemeanor riot, misdemeanor unlawful assembly and obstructing legal process.
“The Maple Grove Police Department respects and upholds the First Amendment rights of individuals to peacefully assemble and express their views. Our priority remains the safety and security of all residents, visitors, and property within our community,” a spokesperson for the police department said, adding, “At that point, the activity was no longer considered peaceful. Individuals participating in criminal acts are not protected under the First Amendment and were subject to arrest.”
The Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and Hennepin Public Order Group all responded to the scene to help Maple Grove police.
(KSTP-TV)(KSTP-TV)
