Syracuse and Onondaga County leaders stressed Sunday they believe the vast majority of people gathered to protest police brutality and the Minnesota death of George Floyd did so in a peaceful and productive way, but a "few bad actors" took over and overshadowed the protests by looting and damaging the city.

Both the city and county have implemented 8 p.m. curfews that last until 7 a.m. that prohibit travel or gathering as leaders brace for the potential of more unrest Sunday night.

"I'm concerned for our city, I'm concerned for my constituents, but the actions of our constituents over the past 24 hours - setting aside a few - have heartened me and have actually made me feel my confident and more proud of our city," Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said.

As the region continues to battle the coronavirus pandemic, County Executive Ryan McMahon called these trying times for everyone, and adding a national outcry against police brutality has only added to the magnitude of the situation.

"What happened to Mr. Floyd was so evident and so wrong, and we go to see it. And people are angry," McMahon said. "There is no gray in this situation."

Walsh, McMahon, and Syracuse Police Chief Kenton Buckner voiced support for people's right to protest, but emphasized that they will protect the safety of the others and businesses.

"The issues we are facing, we want to make sure the message stays focused on what we are all frustrated about," Buckner said. "When you have looting, it changes the dynamic of the conversation. We share in your frustration; we share in your anger."

Buckner added that six people faced charges following last night's unrest, but they will be investigating the thefts of businesses, urging owners to call 911 to file a report. The police chief also confirmed officers used pepper balls - not tear gas - and rubber bullets as the situation escalated, both Buckner said are less lethal tactics.

He said, "We are proud of how we handled this last night."