Hell No, Occupy Coachella Valley Wouldn't Go: 9 Protestors Arrested
Protestors at Occupy Coachella Valley ignored warnings by authorities to pack up camp at Civic Center Park, resulting in nine arrests early Tuesday morning. More than 50 protestors were occupying the valley.
Palm Desert stopped issuing camping permits to protestors on Friday. Deputies with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department advised occupiers through Monday night to disperse. When more than two dozen deputies paid the campground a surprise visit around 12:30am on Tuesday, most of the protestors moved to the sidewalk to avoid handcuffs. They chanted, "Shame on you," from the sidelines, reports Palm Desert Patch.
However, a small group of protestors remained and were taken into custody. Protestors stated publicly that they intended to stay, regardless of whether or not they violated city ordinances. Seven occupiers were arrested initially, included a 17-year-old girl and an Iraq War veteran. Two others were detained about an hour later.
Said protestors were arrested on suspicion of unlawful camping and unlawful assembly. One protestor was also arrested on suspicion of resisting arrest.
