Lower Turnout Expected At Downtown LA May Day Rally
LOS ANGELES (CBS) — A smaller turnout than in previous years is expected for the upcoming May Day parade downtown, but police officials said Friday they will adapt to the situation no matter how many people show up.
KNX 1070's Pete Demetriou reports organizers may be hoping for large crowds on Sunday, but smaller numbers could mean fewer problems.
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Two separate and somewhat antagonistic organizing committees are pushing different agendas for the rally, which could result in crowds well below the estimated 10,000 demonstrators hoped for by organizers.
The LAPD, however, would welcome a lower turnout compared to the massive crowds in previous years.
Back in 2007, police used what was later ruled to be excessive force on unruly demonstrators in MacArthur Park.
But now, Central Bureau Deputy Chief Jose Perez says a low-key but substantial police presence along the parade route should be enough to deal with any problems.
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