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Police commissioner: Boston Women's March 'respectful,' 'refreshing'

Photo Courtesy: Trenten Kelley via Instagram (@trentenkelley)

BOSTON — In an event that saw up to 175,000 people pack onto Boston Common Saturday, police “had no issues,” according to the commissioner.

At a news conference, Boston Police Commissioner William Evans said the event was peaceful and smooth.

“We had no issues, we had no arrests and it was refreshing to see so many people come out in something they believe in,” Evans said.

People from all over New England were at the Common, holding signs and chanting. The Mayor's officer reported between 135,000 and 150,000 attended the rally, but have since updated that number to around 175,000.

The office said the number is based on police and organizer's estimates.

“We had ample personnel standing by should we have issues,” Commissioner Evans said. “We knew the majority of people there were coming for cause, whether it be a civil rights causes, abortion, you know a lot of good people coming to express their first amendment rights.”

Overall, the event was peaceful and smooth and there were no reports of altercations or damage.

“We knew we were going to have a big crowd, but not as big and not as respectful as we’ve seen,” Evans said.

He added the attendees were amicable and complimentary, and exemplified a community with a good connection to its police force.

“I must have had 175,000 people tell us what a great job we’re doing,” said Evans.