Occupy Portland Protest Overcomes Eviction Notice and Avoids Clash with Police

After weeks of protests by Anti-Wall Street protesters, the city of Portland issued a court order for the Occupy Portland protesters to clear out by midnight Saturday. However, after thousands of additional supporters showed up as the deadline approached, the city of Portland Oregon backed down.

Organizers and supporters of the Occupy Portland protest celebrated their victory today. By morning, the crowds of thousands had thinned back to original levels and the streets were cleared calmly by police. Organizers said they hoped enough people will join them to make it difficult if not impossible for police to carry through on any eviction.

According to reports, organizers of the protest used a bull horn to tell supporters to “Remain peaceful and aware. We have strength in holding the streets.”

The mayor of the city, Mayor Sam Adams, had issued the order to have the area cleared of protesters citing the unsanitary living conditions of the camp in addition to growing reports of drug use and criminal behavior including theft.

This morning the mayor said during a press conference in reference to the situation “This is not a game.” Adams affirmed that he is focused on maintaining law and order and peace within the city of Portland.

Despite the concern of violence erupting in the overnight, the 200 plus police officer line was met with no resistance or violence. Instead, protesters were reportedly in good spirits with some dancing and behaving in a peaceful manner.