This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Demonstrations protesting the decision by a grand jury to not indict Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of unarmed teenager Michael Brown continued across the country—including Los Angeles—on Black Friday. In a rally that made its way through the Westlake neighborhood last night, the Los Angeles Police Department made 8 arrests.
The arrests took place around 7 p.m. as demonstrators began blocking streets and running into traffic. A group of about 30 protesters were surrounded by LAPD officers near the intersection of Beverly Boulevard and Alvarado Street. Officers began detaining people after giving an initial warning to disperse. Those who stayed were detained, but let go if a background check revealed no outstanding warrants. As a precaution, the onramps to the 101 freeway were shut down according to KTLA. Presumably to prevent another shutdown.
According to FOX 11, the arrests last night bring the total number of people arrested protesting the grand jury's decision in Los Angeles to 379.
"These killings have been happening at a nauseating rate. There are no federal policies to stop them," Daniel Lee told the LA Times, explaining the message of the protests last night.
"Terrorizing motorists is not covered by the 1st Amendment," LAPD Lieutenant Andy Smith offered as a rebuke. Authorities say the protest was was peaceful, but had to intervene once individuals began blocking traffic. One of people arrested was cuffed for battery against a police officer.
Related:
21 Photos And Videos That Tell The Story Of Los Angeles' Ferguson Protests Last Night
