Authorities in Washington, D.C. arrested two suspects for allegedly assaulting a police officer near Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign rally on Tuesday night. The arrests occurred around 7:00 p.m. in the area of 17th St. and Constitution Ave., Northwest, a few blocks south of the White House.
The suspects, a man and a woman, were apprehended outside the perimeter of the Ellipse, where Harris was holding her rally. The campaign event was ongoing when the arrests took place, with Harris taking the stage at approximately 7:40 p.m.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), an individual attempted to cross a police line near the intersection of 15th Street and Constitution Avenue, Northwest. The individual disregarded the officer's commands and began assaulting the officer when they tried to remove her. A second individual then approached the officers from behind and also assaulted them. Both suspects were arrested without further incident and charged with Assaulting a Police Officer. Fortunately, the arresting officers did not sustain any injuries.
It remains unclear whether the arrested individuals were Harris supporters, protesters, or unaffiliated with the rally. During the event, at least one protester was detained amid pro-Palestine demonstrations. Protesters were observed wearing keffiyehs and holding signs advocating for the cessation of U.S. funding to Israel.
The MPD did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding the arrest of protesters. Additionally, the Lincoln Project made a controversial post about the rally, criticizing former President Trump for turning the Ellipse into a 'crime scene' four years ago.
The Harris campaign has been contacted for comment on the incident. Authorities in D.C. are actively investigating the matter, and further details are pending.
