Newark Police units with the assistance of The Emergency Services Unit, SWAT, NJ State Police, and NPD1 helicopter dispersed a gathering of about 75 protesters who reportedly became unruly during the red carpet segment of the VMA’s this evening.
According to police, officer physically restrained then arrested about a half dozen of the protesters who attempted to force their way into restricted areas around the red carpet.
Officials say, one of the men almost jumped over the barricade and came in close contact with red carpet participants at the intersection of Edison Place and Mulberry Street.
Police were able to immediately take the man into custody.
The protest was regarding issues with Newark’ s lead water crisis according to officials.
Authorities believe that the suspects were not residents of Newark and used the water situation to create issues at the well organized and secured event according to reports.
Police were able to get the situation under control in about a half-hour with no injuries reported.
Majority of the protesters did demonstrate orderly conduct while exercising their right to protest according to reports.