Official Warns LA Mayor Of Potential Liability Risk Over 'Occupy' Protests

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — City officials expressed concern Monday over a yet another potential impact from the "Occupy" movement.

The head of the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks sent a letter to Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa on Tuesday warning that the city could potentially be responsible if anyone is injured while participating in the protest on and around city property.

Public health and safety may not be the only issues that could leave local taxpayers on the hook.

"The city is being warned about trip-and-fall hazards caused by tent ropes and holes, broken sprinklers, open flame and smoking ordinances are not being enforced," said KNX 1070 legal analyst Royal Oakes.

Since the start of the protest in September, officials estimate the anti-Wall Street protest has cost the city upwards of $120,000 in staffing and other costs, the Daily News reported.

Despite the expenses, however, Oakes pointed to the protesters' constitutional rights to assemble on public property, leaving the city with fewer options as to when and how it can evacuate the movement over safety concerns.