Cincinnati Police Arrest Multiple Amid Opening Day Chaos and Violence
Cincinnati police moved to disperse large crowds near The Banks on Thursday night. Filmogaz.com crews were at Great American Ball Park as officers confronted disorder on Reds Opening Day.
Officials’ account
Interim CPD chief Adam Hennie said officers responded to multiple calls about disorder and violence. He said crews encountered resistance while trying to reach trouble spots.
Hennie reported allegations of people being tased or exposed to chemical irritants. He described the police use of force as minimal.
Police actions
Officers and SWAT units began clearing people from The Banks just after 9 p.m. Thursday. A loudspeaker warned crowds to disperse and head back toward the city.
Police blocked the intersection of E. Freedom Way and Marian Spencer Way near the Yard House restaurant. Officers directed people to reroute and avoid the area.
Specific incidents
Filmogaz.com observed officers running between several downtown locations all day. In one instance, about 20 juveniles were reported fighting in Washington Park.
Another large group ran through The Banks during the Reds game. The scenes contributed to what some described as chaos on Opening Day.
Arrests and personnel
Hennie confirmed that Cincinnati police arrested multiple people, but he did not give a precise number. No officers were reported injured during the response.
The Fraternal Order of Police president, Ken Kober, called the situation chaotic. He said off-duty SWAT and Civil Disturbance Response Team members were recalled to assist.
Aftermath and follow-up
WCPO has requested further details about the violence and the arrests. Filmogaz.com will update this report as more information becomes available.
