Police: Capitol Protest Violence Broke Out Quickly With Little Talk

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Officers who were at the state Capitol when violence broke out between neo-Nazi protesters and counter-protesters say there was hardly and jawing back and forth and that violence broke out right away.

In a battle over free speech, there was very little talk, but plenty of action.

A group determined to keep the neo-Nazi protesters off of state Capitol grounds went after the demonstrators, and the first stabbing happened within minutes of the initial confrontation.

The first order for the California Highway Patrol was to set up a perimeter so medical personnel could treat the victim. That wouldn't be the last person injured in the clash as at least 10 people were sent to the hospital.

Officers continued to clear space to help the victims, but some of the neo-Nazi protesters and their supporters are questioning whether there was enough police support.

Former Sacramento County Sheriff John McGinness says the amount of officers on scene shows someone knew something was coming.

"My belief is there was probably some good intel information that was known prior to yesterday because you did see a good strong presence in terms of the number of officers that were there," he said.

Police in riot gear and mounted units were out in force. McGinness blames previous incidences of police violence for possibly affecting how officers approached the crowds.

"It's a delicate balance, and I do believe in 2016 after some years after which some law enforcement has been widely criticized for being too quick, too inclined to jump in and put up a physical resistance, or take control—seize the authority—that they're probably is a more measured response now," he said.

The response to Sunday's violent protest will be studied and analyzed in the weeks to come.