PITTSBURGH (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) - Mayor Bill Peduto is reportedly going to be making changes within the Pittsburgh Police Department following recent clashes between protestors and police.
According to multiple reports, Peduto has said that changes are coming and they will involve high-ranking officials.
The changes could come as early as Friday.
On Saturday, a video showed a protester being forcibly put into the back of an unmarked white van, the arresting officers were in plain clothes and heavily armed.
The man who was arrested later said he was tricked into approaching the vehicle, stating someone in the van was asking for directions. He was then grabbed by multiple men and thrown into the back of the van before being taken to Allegheny County Jail.
On Monday, Peduto released this statement on the arrest:
"It is hard to find the words for how livid I was after seeing the online videos of the disturbing arrest at Saturday's protest,” Mayor Peduto said. “I have taken the time to review all the video and information that has been made available to me. As Mayor, I will never tolerate these tactics being used at peaceful protests again."
Earlier this week, protesters gathered outside of Mayor Peduto's home. At one point, police issued a dispersal order asking protesters to leave the area or face possible arrest.
After protesters left the mayors home, there was a confrontation with police at Mellon Park. One person was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault, Riot, Disorderly Conduct and other charges.
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