Special task force to look into protesters sparking violence in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH — A new task force has been created in response to the week of protests taking place in Pittsburgh.

Called the Damage Assessment and Accountability Taskforce, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police along with multiple local agencies is investigating people who have attacked at least five journalists, looted businesses, caused property damage and committed other crimes such as arson.

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Others taking part in the group include state police, the FBI, the ATF and other local police agencies.

Police said while the majority of demonstrations have been peaceful, there was a small group of people intent on destruction.

This new task force was responsible for the arrest of Matthew Michanowicz, 52, of Duquesne Heights. He was seen on surveillance video placing a bag full of explosives outside a building in downtown Pittsburgh and then walking away.

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“The DAAT will continue to review intelligence indicating planned violence against property, journalists, private citizens and law enforcement,” Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said. “That intelligence includes online threats to damage and loot businesses, and detailed instructions on how to make a Molotov cocktail. These threats are real: On Saturday, a protester threw an improvised incendiary device at a Pittsburgh Police Officer near Mellon Square, which exploded on the ground and caused a nearby officer to suffer concussion-like symptoms. Police are actively investigating.”

Police said the task force is interviewing witnesses and victims and more arrests are pending. Additionally, officers will continue to monitor all protests and close roads in advance of the group to keep people safe. Officers will only intervene when violence occurs and a gathering is deemed unlawful.

Anyone wishing to share videos, photographs or information can send it to DAAT@Pittsburghpa.gov, or call (412) 323-7800 and ask for the task force. Contributors will remain anonymous.

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