Last night's peaceful demonstration outside the Metropolitan Police Department's Seventh District station escalated into unrest, according to an MPD statement. At around 10:05 p.m. Tuesday, the atmosphere shifted as protesters began hurling objects, varying from bottles to rocks, toward police officers securing the premises. Officers then issued multiple orders to disperse, a situation that was met with continued aggression from some individual protestors.

The tensions led to MPD arresting seven individuals by 12:30 a.m. Wednesday. "We will continue to support those who choose to protest peacefully and safely, and we will continue to hold accountable those who commit criminal acts," the MPD statement clarified. While the department advocates for peaceful assembly, their stance is unequivocal when it comes to the enforcement against acts of violence.

In addition to the immediate response, the Seventh District remains under a watchful eye with additional law enforcement presence. Out of an abundance of caution, the MPD has heightened their presence throughout the District. This comes after objects continued to be thrown, as by individuals who remained undeterred by the initial police response.

Officers are still stationed at the scene, according to official reports. The decision to bolster the number of officers in the area reflects the department's priority for safety and their strategy to deter further escalation. Despite the unfortunate turn of events, MPD's commitment to protect the right to protest peacefully remains steadfast.