In the wake of George Floyd's death protests and demonstrations took place across the country including here in Kern County.
For a fifth straight night, hundreds showed up in Downtown Bakersfield calling for change. The demonstration Tuesday night included a moment of silence that lasted for 8 minutes and 46 seconds - the time that Floyd was pinned to the ground before he died.
Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh made an appearance on the steps of the Bakersfield Police Department thanking the crowd while offering these words of support.
"I am so sorry for the pain you have felt. I am so sorry for the pain that your families felt. You aren't looting and doing the kinds of things that damage. You're doing the right thing. So thank you for coming out. Thank you for honoring our community and thank you for honoring the death of George Floyd."
BPD said "the majority of the demonstrators obeyed the law and peacefully dispersed at the conclusion of the event," but did say two people were arrested.
Police say 20-year-old Will Roman was arrested for illegally driving his vehicle into an enclosed area where the demonstration was taking place. Police say Roman drove at high rates of speed "without due regard for the safety of demonstrators, and failed to stop at red lights after fleeing the scene at high rates of speed."
Police also arrested 40-year-old Ronnie Oglesby. Police say he was seen showing up to the protests in a stolen vehicle. He was arrested and faces charges, including auto theft, possession of a stolen vehicle and a felony warrant for assault with a deadly weapon.
