At least 17 House Democrats were detained by the Capitol Police at a pro-abortion demonstration near the Supreme Court in Washington DC. They were protesting the country’s highest court’s decision to overturn Roe v Wade. 

The US Capitol Police issued a series of warnings, putting them out on Twitter as well, saying “It is against the law to block traffic, so officers are going to give our standard three warnings before they start making arrests.” 

After they’d given the three warnings and were starting to make arrests, the Capitol Police tweeted “We made a total of 34 arrests for Crowding, Obstructing or Incommoding (DC Code § 22–1307). That arrest number includes 16 Members of Congress.” 

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Ultimately, they reported that the demonstration had broken up. Among the Congress members was Democrat Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. 

In the clip, the 32-year-old can be seen walking with her hands behind her back, as if handcuffed, and is being led away by a Capitol City Police officer. However, AOC raised her fist to supporters standing on the sidewalk. 

This has led to criticism from many on Twitter saying AOC was faking the handcuffs. 

Camryn Kinsey, a White House official during Donald Trump’s tenure, joked about “invisible handcuffs”. 

Those arrested were taken to a grassy area between the Supreme Court and Capitol building, where the Capitol Police checked their ids and processed them. They were released soon after but will reportedly have to pay a fine of $50 per person, after being charged with obstruction. 

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The protestors had sat down on First Street NE outside the Capitol building, blocking the road. The police first broadcast the pre-recorded messages before beginning their arrests. 

Many of the arrested lawmakers took the chance to speak to the press and some also championed their protest, with posts on Twitter, after their arrests.