Portland Police Crackdown on Violent Protest Aimed at Hotel

Portland, Oregon- A planned demonstration in Portland’s Old Town neighborhood on March 27 resulted in police enforcement action after reports of vandalism and assault.

In accordance with Chief Bob Day’s directive that violence, property destruction, and vandalism will not be tolerated, Portland Police officers developed a “strategic enforcement plan” ahead of the protest.

The demonstration, which was publicized through open-source social media posts, took place near The Society Hotel in the 200 Block of Northwest 3rd Avenue. Organizers described the gathering as an effort to “make noise” in opposition to the business and its owner. Several Instagram accounts, including one named “lettersforpalestinepdx,” posted: “Jessie Burke, the owner of The Society Hotel and Chair of the Old Town Community Association, likes calling the police on community members trying to participate in mutual aid and community care. She also served as the campaign manager for Nathan Vasquez, elected as the District Attorney for Multnomah County in May 2024. Nathan Vasquez ran on a tough-on-crime platform.”

“*lettersforpalestinepdx” Instagram Posts*

Due to concerns about potential property damage, officers monitored the protest without immediate engagement. During the event, police observed demonstrators attempting to force entry into the business while employees held the door shut. Security personnel intervened but were met with physical resistance. A security guard was assaulted by multiple individuals before the team withdrew to safety and reported the incident to police.

Officers also witnessed an individual using a paint marker to deface the business’s front window. In alignment with the Bureau’s commitment to safety and de-escalation, arrests were made later at locations deemed secure.

Nicole Middleton, 42, of Milwaukie, was arrested and booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of Assault III, Attempted Assault III, Coercion, Criminal Trespass, Harassment, and Disorderly Conduct. Rhythm Kenaley, 30, of Portland, was charged with Criminal Mischief II. Due to county jail booking policies, Kenaley was cited and released.

“Our response was carefully planned to ensure both community safety and accountability,” said Central Precinct Commander Brian Hughes. “Peaceful protest is a protected right, but violent behavior and criminal acts against people or property will not be tolerated. Arrests can be made at the time of occurrence or in the future as investigative leads present themselves. We will continue to pursue leads to identify and hold those involved accountable.”

Police continue to investigate the incident and have not ruled out further arrests.