Officers Clear Protest Site After Three Weeks
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers cleared a pro-Palestinian encampment outside UCLA’s Ackerman Union on Wednesday, after three weeks of occupation. The encampment, which was set up in solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, had been the site of several protests and demonstrations.
Students and Activists Protest
Students and activists who had been camped out at the site protested the LAPD’s actions, arguing that they were violating their First Amendment rights. They also accused the university of not doing enough to support the protesters.
LAPD Says Campers Blocked Access
LAPD officials said that they cleared the encampment because it was blocking access to the Ackerman Union and causing a disturbance. They also said that they had received complaints from students and staff about the protesters’ behavior.
UCLA Investigating
UCLA officials said that they are investigating the LAPD’s actions and will take appropriate steps if any wrongdoing is found. They also said that they support the right of students to protest peacefully, but that they must do so in a way that does not disrupt the university community.
The LAPD’s clearing of the encampment has sparked outrage from some students and activists, who argue that it was an unnecessary use of force. They are planning to hold a rally on campus on Thursday to protest the LAPD’s actions.
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E. Thompson
