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Detroit and Grand Rapids impose curfews after Saturday night violence

Dustin Dwyer
/
Michigan Radio

Two Michigan cities are imposing curfews after clashes between police and protesters this weekend.

Detroit and Grand Rapids have been rocked by vandalism and violence after rallies against police brutality against black people.

Detroit's curfew will begin at 8 p.m., and lift at 5 a.m.

Several times during the two nights of skirmishes, Detroit police fired tear gas to disperse crowds of people who were throwing rocks, bottles and fireworks at the officers.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan says the curfew is not aimed at city residents, but at people coming from out of town.

“This doesn’t apply if you are going to or from work or you’re coming home. If you’ve got a job at night, it isn’t going to be a problem,” said Duggan, adding that the curfew will remain in place as long as the city’s police chief feels there is a "threat."

Sunday, Grand Rapids officials declared a civil emergency, hours after violence and vandalism broke out in the city’s downtown Saturday night.

Vandals broke windows and set fires long after the anti-police brutality march ended. 

The city is instituting a 7 p.m. - 5 a.m. curfew starting Sunday night.

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss says the curfew will remain in place until at least Tuesday.

"A nighttime curfew is necessary in order to prevent additional violence and maintain order,” says Bliss.

Detroit and Grand Rapids were among many Michigan cities that saw protests Saturday related to the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. 

No significant problems were reported in Flint, Kalamazoo, Saginaw and other cities holding rallies. 

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.