The Orlando Police Department has released body camera video footage that shows the arrests of eight demonstrators who were involved in an altercation following a pro-Palestine demonstration at Lake Eola on Saturday afternoon.
On Sunday, September 22, OPD released the bodycam footage from several officers in the department’s bike unit. The first video shows the arresting officer who attempted to prevent a physical altercation as an argument escalated between two parties.
The second video is from other officers on scene, and it was released by police to show “the level of agitation of the demonstrators and their willingness to physically attack officers.”
According to Orlando police, the incident occurred at around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, approximately an hour and a half after 20 demonstrators had walked peacefully around Lake Eola.
OPD stated that officers from its Downtown and Parramore bike units monitored the demonstration near the lake, which “concluded peacefully” at 5:15 p.m. Fifteen minutes later, the bike officers responded to a nearby Publix on E Central Boulevard in reference to some demonstrators who were arguing with an individual who had “opposing views.”
When the officers attempted to separate the two parties involved in the argument, a member of the Pro-Palestine demonstration group “lunged toward an OPD officer and the opposing citizen in a physically threatening manner,” according to police.
As a result, the demonstrator accused of lunging at the officer was arrested on a disorderly conduct charge. OPD stated that other demonstrators attempted to interfere with the arrest, which led to several altercations.
In total, eight demonstrators were arrested by Orlando police on various charges that include disorderly conduct, battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, and resisting arrest without violence.
The day after the incident occurred, the Orlando Police Department stated on social media that it is releasing the bodycam footage “in an effort to be transparent.”
OPD added that it “has an obligation to protect all residents and visitors and is dedicated to ensuring the safety of all who choose to assemble peacefully.”
A “use of force” investigation is currently being conducted, according to police.