Spokane Police Department Statement on June 14 “No Kings” Demonstration Following Pride Parade
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~ Spokane, WA - The Spokane Police Department (SPD) has released a statement recognizing and respecting the importance of free expression and the right to peaceful protest. This comes after demonstrations that followed the Pride Parade on June 14, 2025. Sgt. Teresa Fuller of the Traffic Unit and Public Information Officer (PIO) for SPD emphasized their commitment to protecting these rights while ensuring the safety of all community members, including demonstrators, residents, and downtown visitors.

The day began with a peaceful protest in Spokane's iconic Riverfront Park. However, as the day progressed, it turned into a more fluid and dynamic event. At approximately 5:00 p.m., a crowd estimated to be in the thousands gathered and marched through the downtown core. In order to support the demonstration while addressing safety concerns, SPD Tactical (TAC) Team dialogue officers maintained open lines of communication with protest organizers. This dialogue had been initiated in the morning and continued throughout the day's activities, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the event.

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As evening approached, officers issued multiple warnings for demonstrators to remain within permitted areas and avoid main thoroughfares that could disrupt critical traffic routes and create unsafe conditions for both participants and motorists. Most demonstrators cooperated with these directives; however, as time passed, the size of the crowd marching decreased steadily.

By approximately 8:00 p.m., only a small number of individuals remained in the area. They were advised once again to vacate roadways and follow all applicable laws for a safe conclusion to the day's activities. However, at 8:44 p.m., dispersal orders were issued due to continued roadway obstruction. The tenor and tone of what had been a productive dialogue changed as some individuals became increasingly aggressive towards officers. As a result, arrests were made for failure to disperse starting at 8:58 p.m., with officers deploying inert smoke and pepper balls at those who resisted leaving the roadway shortly after 9:00 p.m. A total of 11 individuals were arrested for failure to disperse, with one also facing charges of malicious mischief for spray-painting City of Spokane property.

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Contrary to some online reports, there was never a curfew in place on Saturday night. Additionally, SPD communicated with leadership at River Park Square Mall, asking them to direct people leaving the mall towards the south entrances. There were no orders for evacuations at the mall.

Matthew Danielson, Executive Director of Spokane Pride, expressed his satisfaction with how the event went. "Spokane Pride organizers do everything we can to make this weekend as safe and joyful as possible," he said. "That includes working closely with the City of Spokane, Spokane Police, and community partners. This year's event went as planned, and we are glad everyone had fun."

Chief Kevin Hall also reiterated SPD's support for peaceful protest and their commitment to protecting that right while ensuring the safety of everyone in the community. "Your officers worked tirelessly throughout the day to facilitate a safe demonstration and maintain open dialogue with organizers," he stated. "While most participants were cooperative, we had to take action when safety was at risk. We will continue to review our actions to ensure they reflect our values of professionalism, accountability, and respect for Constitutional rights."

Filed Under: Government, City
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