Philadelphia police increase presence and businesses shut down after social media posts about looting

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Officers were out in force Wednesday night to ensure Philadelphia remained safe after social media reports of looting and protests surfaced.

“We are very, very cautious,” said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel. “Make sure we protect our communities throughout the city, not just here in Center City.”

Authorities say they were prepared for possible disruptions as election day came and went.

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“There was some expectation that we would get some response regardless of where the election landed, and so we’re prepared,” Bethel said.

Action News was on Market Street when officers dispersed a group of youths dressed in all black around 8:30 p.m.

Two people were arrested during the incident.

“I ask the parents to engage their young people because if anyone engages in negative activity, we will take the appropriate action,” Bethel said.

Several units were also stationed near stores that had previously been looted.

“The department has learned some lessons from past activities as I come back on board. They have a very strong plan that I fully support,” Bethel said.

In Hunting Park, police said about a dozen youths tried to break into DTLR on Germantown Avenue but were unsuccessful.

“We have some like opportunists, people who take advantage of something and just create attempts to maybe cause damage or destroy properties,” Bethel said.

In Center City along Walnut Street, the New Balance store was roped off as crews prepared to shield Pandora. On Chestnut Street, guards stood outside Foot Locker.

Some businesses even had a sign on the door indicating they were closing early, such as LuLuLemon and JCrew in Center City, as well as businesses on Aramingo Avenue in Port Richmond.

Officers also surrounded City Hall while a group of Socialist Alternative and Revolutionary Communists of America peacefully protested.

“We’re out here to start a mass movement against Trump’s right-wing agenda and stop his mass deportation program,” protester Eric Jenkins said.

“We’re here ready to go, but we hope this continues to be a peaceful process,” Bethel said.