CHP defends officer who pulled gun on protesters

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- The California Highway Patrol is defending an undercover officer who pulled a gun on protesters.

A reporter with the San Francisco Chronicle snapped a picture of a CHP officer pointing the gun at him last night at 27th and Harrison streets in Oakland.

The CHP says someone punched an officer in the head and the crowd started closing in on them. They said the officer at first drew his baton and badge and warned everyone to back up.

Shortly after, Oakland police officers arrived to make arrests.

"We are extremely cognizant and very sensitive to the display of a gun," CHP Chief Avery Browne said. "In this situation, the officer escalated to that level to protect himself, his partner who had just been assaulted, and the other innocent bystanders who were trying to peacefully protest."

Police also arrested a woman who kicked one of the officers in the head.