Two protesters were taken into custody Thursday near the Republican National Committee midterm convention being held at American Airlines Center in Dallas, with one facing accusations of physically attacking a counter-protester.
Dallas police confirmed that the arrests occurred in the vicinity of McKinnon and Payne streets, approximately three blocks from the convention venue. Officers deployed in large numbers around the arena responded to both incidents.
The first individual was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a counter-protester who had gathered near the demonstration area. Police noted that the victim of the alleged assault did not require medical attention following the incident.
The second person taken into custody was accused of blocking a public roadway. Dallas police did not release additional specifics regarding either the assault or the obstruction incident as of Thursday evening.
The identities of both individuals and the formal charges they face were not immediately made available. Authorities stated that names and charges would be released once the two were officially processed and booked into jail.
A significant police presence had been established throughout the area surrounding American Airlines Center ahead of the two-day RNC event. The convention drew both supporters and demonstrators to the downtown Dallas location.
Investigators are continuing to look into both incidents and have not ruled out additional details emerging as the situation develops.
