In these unprecedented times, I remain deeply proud of how Portlanders continue to support one another — and equally proud of the dedicated members of the Portland Police Bureau. Our city is full of people who care, who show up, and who express themselves passionately.
Unfortunately, the national narrative often distorts the truth. Portland spans 145 square miles, yet one city block has dominated headlines and viral clips — some of them months or even years old — creating a perception that doesn’t reflect the city we live and work in daily. While this portrayal is frustrating, our focus remains where it should be: keeping Portlanders safe.
Thanks to collaboration with city, state, and federal partners, we’ve made significant progress in reducing violent crime, which is down 17% this year. That improvement is the result of thoughtful reforms, evidence-based policing, and a commitment to community engagement.
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Free Speech and Public Safety
This year alone, Portland has hosted many peaceful protests — demonstrations the bureau has supported and facilitated in accordance with our community’s commitment to free expression. We’ve also seen protests near the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the South Waterfront neighborhood. While most participants remain peaceful, a small number have engaged in criminal behavior, including assaults. These incidents are unacceptable, and we’ve made arrests where necessary.
It’s important to clarify that the Federal Protective Service is responsible for securing the ICE building itself, while Portland Police manage public safety in surrounding areas. At times, individuals with conflicting political views have come to these protests intent on violence. We continue to investigate these cases thoroughly and hold offenders accountable.
Free speech does not include the freedom to commit crimes.
This Isn’t 2020
Comparisons to 2020 — when the city experienced more than 100 consecutive nights of unrest — are common but misleading. Portland today is not the same city it was then, and neither is the Portland Police Bureau.
Over the past two years, we’ve implemented major reforms in use of force, accountability, and crowd management. We’ve proven that large demonstrations can occur peacefully. And when disturbances arise, we’ve learned to act swiftly, strategically, and with precision — restoring order while minimizing escalation.
Equally important, we’re no longer working in isolation. Strong leadership from the mayor, city council, city administrator, governor, and congressional delegation has allowed for a unified statewide effort to maintain public safety.
A New Approach to Public Order
Some have questioned why Portland Police officers aren’t always seen in tactical gear lined up before crowds. The answer is simple: research shows such tactics often escalate tensions rather than reduce them.
Instead, we now employ a layered approach focused on communication, restraint, and collaboration.
Our Dialogue Liaison Officers, easily identified by their white shirts, engage directly with protest organizers — often before demonstrations begin. They mediate conflicts, de-escalate situations, and help ensure everyone’s safety. This proactive outreach has built meaningful relationships, fostering trust and reducing confrontations.
When criminal behavior does occur, our Rapid Response Team is trained to act swiftly and proportionally, intervening only as necessary. These operations are directed by a Crowd Management Incident Commander, who determines whether immediate action or delayed intervention will best serve public safety.
Through this model, we’ve transitioned from “crowd control” to “crowd support” — emphasizing outreach, preparation, and communication. This shift has earned the bureau national and international recognition, including invitations to teach at major public order conferences and to host the Western States Public Order Conference here in Portland.
Moving Forward Together
The deployment of federal law enforcement and National Guard units has understandably raised concerns. But let me be clear: Portland Police are actively responding to public disorder every day — even if you don’t always see it. We’re engaging strategically, not theatrically.
With the world’s eyes on our city, this is our opportunity to demonstrate how much we’ve grown — both as a bureau and as a community.
Many Portlanders have expressed frustration or hopelessness about recent events. My message is this: channel that energy into action. Volunteer, participate, and help tell Portland’s real story — a story defined by resilience, innovation, and compassion, not division.
Every major city faces challenges. But Portland’s character has always been rooted in creativity and community spirit. We will not be defined by one city block or a handful of viral moments.
I am honored to serve as your Chief of Police and remain confident that, together, Portlanders and the Portland Police Bureau can continue building a safer, stronger, and more united city for everyone.
