Political Rally Over Election Causes Disruptions Nearby: Palatine PD

PALATINE, IL — A planned political protest at Harper College last weekend spilled out into the neighboring area, causing roadways to be blocked, noise complaints and a large police presence. Police said no arrests were made.

The protest over the recent Venezuelan presidential election was held Sunday at a rented Palatine Park District pavilion on the college campus. Police were requested to assist Harper's police department by blocking off access into the campus.

As crowds began to disperse from the campus, they moved their gatherings to the private property business lots and other parking lots located at the Northwest corner of S. Roselle and Algonquin Roads. Although peaceful, many of the participants parked their vehicles in the westbound lanes of Algonquin Road and southbound lanes of Roselle Road, creating hazards for drivers, as well as pedestrians walking across Roselle Road to and from the campus, according to police. Complaints were also made regarding reckless driving and fireworks.

With the increasing crowds, police initiated an Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System mutual aid request to ensure everyone's safety. Officers from surrounding agencies responded to the area for assistance.

In addition, at the request of the private business owners, officers made announcements to the crowds asking them to disperse. The crowds responded to the initial request and left peacefully. Police said no discernible damage was located at any of the private properties.