Oregon State Police say a trooper was not flashing a racist symbol when video appeared to show him making an “OK” hand signal toward a counter protester at a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Salem.
The interaction took place over the weekend and was streamed live on social media. In the footage, the trooper watches counter protesters, walks up to a man wearing a “Black Bikes Matter” shirt, and makes the signal. The man then pats the trooper on the back.
The video went viral on Saturday, and state police opened an investigation by Sunday. The Anti-Defamation League added the “OK” gesture to its hate symbol database in 2019 because of its use by white supremacists, though it is also widely used to mean everything is fine.
After reviewing the video, state police said the trooper was checking on the man’s well being. They released body camera footage showing the man being knocked down by a protester, Christopher, who has been charged with disorderly conduct and harassment. About a minute later, the trooper approaches the man and makes the signal. Police said the man was the victim of a crime and indicated he was okay.
In a statement, the department said it condemns racist behavior and does not allow white supremacist behavior by its officers. It acknowledged the public’s concern and asked people to wait for complete information before judging the trooper.
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