Hate crime charges after man confronts Buffalo protesters

Two men, one of whom allegedly brandishing a knife, confront protesters on Hertel Avenue in Buffalo. August 28, 2020 (WBEN Photo/Brendan Keany)
Photo credit Two men, one of whom allegedly brandishing a knife, confront protesters on Hertel Avenue in Buffalo. August 28, 2020 (WBEN Photo/Brendan Keany)

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - A Franklinville man was charged with a hate crime after allegedly brandishing a knife and yelling racial slurs during Friday's protests on Hertel Avenue.

Buffalo Police identified the man as Michael Cremen. Cremen, 47, was charged with harassment, criminal possession of a weapon, and menacing.

Video of the incident was captured by WBEN's Brendan Keany:

When asked why nearby officers didn't arrest the individual on-scene, Rinaldo stated that they're looking into the matter.

"We're looking into body cam footage to determine exactly what that officer may have been in a position to see and whether or not their actions were appropriate," he said.

Arraignment is scheduled for October 8.