A black Michigan reporter filmed his own arrest when dozens of cops in insurgency suddenly emerged from dual meetings between protesters against anti-racism and far-right Proud Boys in Kalamazoo, according to his site.
MLive reporter Samuel Robinson, 23, had commented on the lack of police presence during the violence Saturday when suddenly a large force of lawmakers dressed in black protective clothing appeared.
While filming live for the local news website, Robinson walked among the officers – and revealed that he had joined many of them – and told that he was media, because others called the officers “literal Nazis”.
“Jesus – I’m being arrested!” Robinson suddenly screamed, his camera shaking as officers around him were shown.
He kept yelling, “I’m media!” before the live feed was cut.
He was accused of experiencing traffic and a few hours later released from custody on the $ 100 band, his news website said.
“The working press must be assured of the right to cover public events that are clearly in the public interest, without reprisals,” said John Hiner, vice president of MLive content.
“These situations are difficult for everyone involved, but the media that identify them are not part of the event – they are working on it, just like the police.”
The dueling rallies turned violent when a rough 50 Proud Boys – considered by the Southern Poverty Law Center – a hate group – were confronted by about 150 to 200 counter-protesters, MLive said.
It was quite obvious that the Proud Boys were going after black people in the crowd; it was clear from the get-go, ”said pastor Nathan Dannison, a pastor who organized the counter-protest.
Kalamazoo deputy city manager Jeff Chamberlain claimed that the heavy presence of the police came because multiple groups were visibly armed with various weapons, including firearms.
“Numerous physical fights broke out between the groups,” Chamberlain said in a statement.
“When the event became huge, the officers responded quickly and restored order. To restore order in the area, the officers declared a police zone and dispersed the crowds. This is still an unpredictable situation and we encourage the community to stay safe. ”
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