CMPD uses pepper spray after clash with protesters in uptown

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A clash with protesters in uptown led to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department deploying pepper spray Saturday afternoon.

Queen City Nerve recorded video of the incident.

The organization Blexit was holding a “Back the Blue” demonstration to support CMPD in Marshall Park Saturday. Counter-protesters with Charlotte Uprising were also demonstrating to defund the police.

Police claim a protester tried to steal an officer’s bike and that is what led to the pepper spray being used.

Central Division Officers managed the Blexit Rally today. Counter protesters were also on scene. When one protester attempted to steal a patrol officer’s bicycle, officers deployed pepper spray on that individual. No other agents were used during the event. No arrests made. #clt pic.twitter.com/7rRLTKox0O
— CMPD News (@CMPD) July 25, 2020

Charlotte Uprising said several people were sprayed and that the police were not telling the truth about the incident.

This comes after a judge ruled Friday that CMPD can use chemical agents against protesters.

ALSO READ: Protester files formal complaint after video shows CMPD bombarding marchers

After uptown protests in June, the ACLU filed a lawsuit against CMPD. A judge signed a temporary restraining order preventing CMPD from using chemical agents against protesters.

Another judge threw out the restraining order Friday.