Columbia police ask protest organizers to reach out for help during protests

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Protests continued in downtown Columbia Friday, and Columbia police helped block traffic for protesters.

The Columbia Police Department dialed back its response to protests in the previous days. Several organizers said officers didn't help block traffic for them since Sunday's large protest.

According to Community Relations Specialist from CPD Brittany Hilderbrand, the department is asking organizers to reach out.

In a statement she said, "CPD is encouraging protest organizers to contact us directly so that we can assist in protecting those who are participating in the demonstrations. This will help us to ensure that we have the necessary resources to support the community demonstrations."

One demonstrator at Friday's protest said he reached out to Columbia police, and they were aware protesters would be in the streets again on Friday.

Friday, CPD had several officers blocking intersections and keeping people from driving through the group. One patrol vehicle followed behind the group as they marched.

Several protesters also helped by using their own vehicles to block intersections and hold coolers of water.