News Release

City of Irvine
Public Information Office

1 Civic Center Plaza
Irvine, CA 92606
949-724-6029

05/31/2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Public Information Office
949-724-6253
pio@cityofirvine.org

Mayor Christina L. Shea Community Update - May 31, 2020

Yesterday, the Irvine Police Department (IPD) became aware of a planned protest scheduled to take place this afternoon at Irvine City Hall in response to the tragic death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Irvine Police Chief Mike Hamel and IPD immediately began planning for this event with the goal of providing a safe environment for all involved.

I want to report that approximately 125 protesters were at our City Hall today exercising their First Amendment rights.

I want to thank Chief Hamel and IPD for their professionalism and dedication to keeping our community safe.

I am also proud to share that IPD officers responded to the City of Santa Ana last night to provide mutual aid to the Santa Ana Police Department during rioting in their city.  I am thankful that none of our officers were injured.  Several Irvine Police vehicles were damaged, however, as a result of projectiles being thrown by rioters.

I want to thank our Irvine community for their continued support of our police department and for this wonderful City many of us call home.

Thank you,

Christina L. Shea
Mayor, City of Irvine

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Since its incorporation in 1971, Irvine has become a nationally recognized city, with a population of 314,550 that spans 66 square miles and is recognized as one of America’s safest and most successful master-planned urban communities. Top-rated educational institutions, an enterprising business atmosphere, sound environmental stewardship, and respect for diversity all contribute to Irvine’s enviable quality of life. This family-friendly city features more than 16,000 acres of parks, sports fields and dedicated open space and is the home of the Great Park. For more information, please visit cityofirvine.org.