USA TODAY International Edition
At least 4,400 arrests since Floyd protests erupted
Minneapolis and other U. S. cities were bracing for more angry demonstrations Monday after protesters and police across the nation clashed for a sixth straight night in the wake of George Floyd's death in police custody. More than 4,400 people have been arrested nationwide.
Obama hopeful of reforms
Former President Barack Obama called on a "new generation of activists" to channel outrage into “real change” in an essay published on Medium. He said “waves of protests across the country represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades- long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system.” An “overwhelming majority of participants have been peaceful, courageous, responsible, and inspiring,” he wrote, but a “minority of folks who’ve resorted to violence in various forms, whether out of genuine anger or mere opportunism, are putting innocent people at risk.”
Police chief association weighs in
Floyd's death was "unnecessary, avoidable and criminal," the Major Cities Chiefs Association said. The group, whose members include police executives from across the U. S., says it can be honest about its law enforcement history dating back over two centuries "that has included institutional racism" and violence against African Americans. The group says every major city chief must take every action within their authority to hold officers accountable.
Federal riot teams sent to DC
Riot teams from the federal Bureau of Prisons were being sent to Washington and Miami. The FBI also has directed its elite Hostage Rescue Unit to help in D. C. A weekend of rioting in the capital deep scars in the shadow of the White House and across the city where 88 people have been arrested, while dozens of law enforcement officers, including Secret Service agents, were injured.
New York City under curfew
After three nights of violent protests and looting, New York was under a citywide curfew from 11 p. m. to 5 a. m.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said they agreed to the curfew and would double the police presence in the nation's largest city to help prevent violence and property damage.
“I stand behind the protesters and their message, but unfortunately there are people who are looking to distract and discredit this moment,” Cuomo said. De Blasio’s daughter was among almost 1,000 people arrested since Thursday.