US: Nightly protests strain Portland police resources

Portland's Police Chief says his department's resources are strained after almost 70 straight nights of protests.

Portland Police Bureau Chief Chuck Lowell told reporters Wednesday that responding to violent protesters has taken officers away from other duties.

He praised the dedication of officers who have responded to the nightly protests.

"It really affects their wellness and their families, and they love this city so much that they keep coming back and they keep serving," he said.

Early Wednesday, a riot was declared during demonstrations after authorities said people set fires and barricaded public roadways.

Unruly protest have happened in Oregon's largest city every night for more than two months since George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis.

People gathered outside the Portland Police Association in North Portland.

KOIN reports a group of people breached the doors of the Portland Police Association building.

While inside, some set a fire and caused other damage — prompting the police to declare a riot around 1 a.m. Wednesday.

Police say several arrests were made overnight.