BELLEVUE, Wash. — Bellevue police announced that they have made at least 23 arrests and recovered tens of thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise from the looting of dozens of stores on May 31.
Police Chief Steve Mylett said the looters who broke into Bellevue Square mall were simply there to destroy.
He said two larger groups joined a peaceful protest outside Bellevue Square about 3:45 p.m. and started smashing windows and looting stores.
Mylett reiterated today that none of those arrested were involved in the peaceful protest, but came for other reasons. Some have gang affiliations.
According to Mylett, 23 people have been arrested or charged in connection to the looting. About 100 others have been identified for questioning.
He says most of those arrested were from the Seattle or Bellevue area, but there were some from around the state.