Activists halt Portland council meeting; 3 arrested

(updated with three arrests)

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) – Protesters demanding the resignation of Mayor Ted Wheeler shut down a Portland City Council meeting Wednesday morning and three later were arrested.

Activist Mimi German organized the protest that led to a lengthy recess Wednesday. She said her group would shut down City Hall until its concerns about homelessness and police tactics are addressed.

The activists are upset about the recent police shooting of a black teenager and alleged police brutality at street protests.

Wheeler missed the meeting because of jury duty. Commissioner Chloe Eudaly introduced the first item on the agenda and was quickly interrupted. She recessed the meeting but later came out to speak with German.

Security eventually cleared the council chamber, warning people they would be arrested if they did not leave.

Portland police said three men in their 20s were arrested after a group remained unlawfully in the entry way of City Hall.