Assault and Vandalism Erupt at Portland Protest as Two Face Charges in Old Town Clash

PORTLAND, Ore. — An assault on a security guard and vandalism with a message spray painted onto a shopfront window led to the arrest last night of two people involved in a demonstration in Portland Old Town.

Portland Police Bureau (PPB) arrested Nicole Middleton (42) of Milwaukie and Rhythm Kenaley (30) of Portland.

Middleton was charged with third-degree assault, third-degree attempted assault, coercion, criminal trespass, harassment, and disorderly conduct. Kenaley was charged with second-degree criminal mischief.

PPB learned on social media that a protest demonstration against a business in the 200 Block of Northwest Third Avenue was planned for last night. According to a PPB news release, the event was advertised as a gathering to ‘make noise’ in a protest opposing the business and its owner.

‘Due to concerns about possible property damage, officers monitored the demonstration but did not initially engage with the group,’ revealed the news release.

A Strategic Enforcement Plan was Implemented

In line with the policy of PPB Chief Bob Day, who has directed that criminal destruction, violence, or vandalism of property will not be tolerated, a Strategic Enforcement Plan was implemented by the Central Precinct.

PPB observed the events that took place at the gathering, but arrests were made ‘at later times and locations deemed safe.’

PPB officers watched as an assault on a private security guard took place. According to the PPB, demonstrators tried to enter the business, but employees held them back by using their weight to hold the door shut.

The demonstrators succeeded in forcing the door open and keeping it ajar, while private security personnel responded to assist in closing the entrance. During the fracas, a security guard was ‘assaulted by multiple individuals.’

PPB officers also witnessed ‘an individual vandalizing the business’s front window with paint, writing a message on the glass.

Violent Behavior and Criminal Acts Will Not be Tolerated

Central Precinct Commander Brian Hughes said peaceful protests were a protected right, ‘but violent behavior and criminal acts against people or property will not be tolerated.’ He said an investigation was ongoing to identify and hold accountable other people at the protest gathering.

Anyone with more information about the incident can contact the Portland Police Bureau at crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov.