Police declare riot, state of emergency extended in violence-plagued Portland

Anarchists in Portland smashed windows, sprayed graffiti on buildings and broke into businesses on Friday night, continuing a year-long wave of violence in the protest-weary Oregon city.

Police responded Friday night by declaring another riot, while Mayor Ted Wheeler -- who once welcomed the protesters but tired of their violence -- extended a state of emergency in the city through midday Monday.

"The anarchists have called for more destruction," Wheeler said. "I've directed the police bureau to arrest and engage illegal activity whenever they can safely do so."

Wheeler's language Friday was far different than a year ago when he criticized federal agents who coming to the city to bolster security at government buildings, calling it an "occupation." The mayor now refers to the protesters as "self-described anarchists" and urged members of the public to report any illegal activity by them, including recording license plate numbers.

"Our job is to unmask them, arrest them and prosecute them," the mayor said. "People know who these criminals are."

The latest round of violence was prompted by the guilty verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial in Minnesota.