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Scheduled 'Bash Mob' Fails To Materialize In Long Beach

LONG BEACH (CBSLA.com) — Long Beach Police warned residents Friday about a scheduled 'Bash Mob' but the violent act did not materialize.

A 'Bash Mob' involves upwards of 100 people -- usually teens who organize on social media -- who run through the streets attacking and assaulting people, stealing property, committing petty crimes and acts of vandalism.

A 'Bash Mob' struck downtown Long Beach on July 9. Police investigating that incident said they learned another event was scheduled for today at 2 p.m.

Five hours after the anticipated start time, no incidents had occurred, the department's Nancy Pratt said.

There was a heavy police presence today during an anti-George Zimmerman protest. Police wanted to make sure none of the "Bash Mob" crowd infiltrated the peaceful demonstration.

"We will continue to support everyone's right to free speech and assembly," Long Beach Police Department Sgt. Aaron Eaton said. "However, the police must also protect the safety of those victims targeted by these 'bash mobs."'

(©2013 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

 

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