One Pennsylvania officer was injured and several windows were smashed after a riot broke out Monday outside of the Allegheny County Jail and Pittsburgh Municipal Court building.
Jail staff called 911 around 7:45 PM to report a rioting group of about 20-25 people launching rocks, sticks and fireworks from outside the jail. Wearing all black with black masks, authorities report that one member of the troupe was banging a drum.
Two bicycle officers close to the scene got in a scuffle with a suspect, later identified as Tyler Kobel. When one officer drew out his Taser, Kobel surrendered. The officer in question suffered a shoulder injury and was assessed by medical personnel. Another officer took on James Griffin, who charged him until a third officer forced Griffin to surrender.
As more officers arrived, rioters fled the scene, damaging vehicles and property. One Allegheny County Sheriff’s vehicle has its rear windows smashed in.
Police report the group involved is the Allegheny County Health Justice Project, who protests on behalf of inmates, whom the group feel are not receiving proper medical care.
According to WPXI, the protesters claimed the jail inmates were having a sit-in at the same time, though recently-released inmates had no recollection of the incident.
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