Curfews set as 2 New Jersey protests turn destructive

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey’s capital city and Atlantic City had largely peaceful protests Sunday over the death of George Floyd, but protests in both areas later devolved, with instances of window-smashing and stealing from stores.

Trenton put a curfew into place at about 10 p.m., while Atlantic City instituted an 8 p.m. curfew when peace “transitioned to criminal activity,” police there tweeted.

“During this time, only those individuals that are traveling to or from work or seeking medial/police assistance will be permitted. All others are subject to arrest,” Atlantic City police told CBS Philly in a statement.

Speaking at late-night news conference, Trenton Police Director Sheilah Coley said the the destruction would not bring back Floyd and would instead further hurt a city eager to attract more businesses.

“Tonight I see people setting things on fire, looting buildings ... how dare you break in and loot and steal,” Coley said. “How dare you.”

Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, a Democrat, said there were no injuries, but many attempts to steal from stores, including a sneaker shop and a bank.

Coley said she didn’t have the number of people who were arrested.

Floyd, a black man, died Monday after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on his neck until he stopped breathing. Protests have rocked U.S. communities ever since, with nightfall continually bringing a break in peaceful activity.