ANAHEIM, CA - (July 25, 2012) - Good morning

I would like to address the incidents of public protest and civil unrest that occurred last night.

At yesterday’s city council meeting, many Anaheim residents expressed their concerns and opinions about the incidents that occurred over the weekend. These people properly exercised their democratic rights and we on the city council—their public servants—heard and appreciated those comments.

However, I am disturbed by the events that took place outside City Hall. Some protesters—many of whom we believe were not from our city—chose to take advantage of this evening of dialogue to try to create chaos in our downtown neighborhoods. They chose violence and vandalism over respectful communication.

I would like to commend Anaheim Police Chief John Welter and the Anaheim Police department for their response to the unrest last night. Their response was swift and appropriate.

I’m here to say that vandalism, arson and other forms of violent protest will simply not be tolerated in our city. We don’t expect last night’s situation to be repeated, but if it should, the police response will be the same: swift and appropriate.

Regarding the officer-involved shootings, let me reiterate that I have called the U.S. Attorney’s office to conduct an independent investigation. When the investigations are concluded, we will have a complete and clear understanding of these incidents. At that time, we can have additional public dialogue about any actions that need to be taken.

In the meantime, we on the city council are happy to hear from any and all residents who have opinions to share with us about the police department, city hall or any other part of city management.

We will not, however, accept any violent protests, vandalism or arson, perpetrated under the guise of “public protest.”

Anaheim is a strong community and a community that works together to solve its problems. My door is always open. I think it is important for city officials to hear from the people we serve. If you have a concern about your city, we’d like to have the dialogue. But violence and vandalism have no part in that conversation.

At this time, I’d like to give Police Chief Welter an opportunity to provide more details about what happened last night.

Media Contact: Ruth Ruiz 714.765.5060more city news

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ABOUT ANAHEIM – The City of Anaheim, founded in 1857, is one of the nation's premier municipalities and is one of California's most populous cities. Anaheim covers 50 square miles with more than 343,000 residents and more than 2,950 City employees. The municipal corporation's annual budget is $1.5 billion. Anaheim supports a thriving business community with companies such as Carl Karcher Enterprises, Inc., L-3 Communications, Pacific Sunwear, and Disneyland Resort. Successful sports franchises call Anaheim home, including Angels Baseball, Anaheim Ducks, the U.S. Men's National Volleyball Team, the 2012 Olympic Games Silver Medal winning U.S. Women's National Volleyball Team, and the Professional Arena Soccer League Anaheim Bolts. Anaheim also boasts world-class meeting and entertainment venues with the Anaheim Convention Center, LEED-certified and the largest on the west coast, Honda Center, City National Grove of Anaheim, Anaheim GardenWalk, and Angel Stadium of Anaheim. In addition, Anaheim embraces its vibrant cultural arts community, including the world-renowned Anaheim Ballet. Annually, Anaheim welcomes millions of visitors to the city, truly making it where the world comes to live, work and play. For more information, please visit www.anaheim.net.

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