Los Angeles Indymedia : Activist News

LOS ANGELES, November 30, 2011 - The Occupy LA encampment at City Hall was raided late last night and destroyed last night by the LAPD. Police mobilized a force of an estimated 800 officers and formed a tight ring around the surrounding area and then an inner ring around the park. When the raid came hundreds of riot police poured out of the South door of City Hall and flooded the camp. Police quickly surrounding those locked in arms in the South Plaza and began making arrests.

Arrests continued late into the night. The exact count is unclear but estimates put it near 200 people. Those not arrested during the raid staged protests on First Street just East of the park. About 1,000 supporters were able to get to the park before police line went up. Those who did not arrive before 9:00 pm were prevented by police lines from getting to the park. Other late arrivers marched around the police perimeter looking for a way in. For a while some people found ways in through some open buildings, but police caught on and stopped it.

Occupiers have regrouped at the La Placita Church and some tents have been set up there. A general assembly is still planned for tonight at 7:30 pm on the West steps of City Hall.

UPDATE, Thursday, Dec 1, 11:30am: Total arrests said to be 292. Most changed for unlawful assembly. Some resisting arrest changes. Hundreds still in jail. Numbers released at this time unclear. Excessive bail set at $5,000. Times 300 arrested means $1.5 million at 10% rate means $150,000 needed in bail money for all arrestees. Bail fund said to be only $12,000. Arraignments expected today, 1:30 pm at 429 Bauchet St. Dept. 80-83. Police claim no force used or injuries but video posted online indicates otherwise. There are reports from Occupy medics of injuries. Unconfirmed reports of rubber bullets fired. Park is now completely fenced off. City is now blaming occupiers for the mess created by police when they destroyed the camp.