Three Austin Cops Injured, Three Arrested in "No Kings" Protest

Three Austin police officers were injured and three people were arrested during the "No Kings" protest Saturday at the Texas Capitol, according to a city news release citing preliminary data.

There were also three use-of-force incidents, according to the release. Protest organizers said more than 20,000 people gathered at the demonstration, which was part of a national campaign to protest a military parade that President Donald Trump was hosting in the nation’s capital.

One police officer suffered a knee injury while making an arrest while another officer was injured when a person pointed a laser in the officer's eye, the release said. A third officer injured their left hand while making an arrest.

The three people arrested Saturday were charged with obstructing a highway or other passageway, a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail. Those arrested were Sanjay Ravigopal, Julien Glasse and Karrington Hardin. Glasse was also charged with evading arrest, a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail.

According to the city's preliminary data, there were three reported use-of-force incidents. One officer discharged a round of pepperball in response to objects being thrown. Another officer took down a person while assisting the Texas Department of Public Safety in making an arrest. The third incident involved two officers, assisted by a third, taking down one person for an arrest for obstructing the roadway.

"As is standard protocol, the use of force was reported and is currently going through the Force Review Unit process," according to the release.

"I want to thank our Austin Police Department Officers and Texas Department of Public Safety partners for handling this event with professionalism, dedication and commitment," Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said in the release. "I also want to thank our community for helping keep the evening peaceful. Through our coordinated efforts, we were all able to keep one another safe."

The protest began at the Capitol at 5 p.m., and Austin police officers, wearing light blue vests, interacted with rallygoers during the demonstration, Davis said.

"Dialogue policing allows officers to talk with attendees to share safety tips, set expectations, and support the right to peacefully assemble," she said. "Open conversation helps keep things calm, respectful, and safe for everyone."

Due to the event's large attendance, police closed several streets including 11th Street from San Jacinto Boulevard to Lavaca Street and Congress Avenue in both directions, the release said. The protest at the Capitol ended at 8 p.m., but large groups began marching through downtown streets until about 11 p.m., the release said.

"To be absolutely clear, the Austin Police Department supports peaceful protests," the release said. "But we will take necessary action against agitators who engage in illegal acts that endanger public safety.

"If you choose to participate in any demonstration, we urge you to do so peacefully. And if you witness suspicious or dangerous behavior, please report it immediately by calling 9-1-1, and proceed to leave the scene."