Watch CBS News

Black Lives Matter Activist Sentenced To 90 Days For Arrest Interference

PASADENA (AP) — A Black Lives Matter organizer who interfered with an arrest by police in southern California has been sentenced to 90 days in jail.

Richards was convicted last week of trying to take a person from the "lawful custody of a peace officer."

Protesters demanding her freedom chanted "Free Jasmine Now" outside the courthouse as she was sentenced. More than 84,000 people have signed an online letter of support for her.

Richards was with a group of protesters at a park last September when a woman approached who allegedly had left a restaurant without paying. Prosecutors argued that Richards incited people to interfere with the woman's arrest.

Jasmine Richards will be given credit for 18 days she already spent in jail. She also must attend anger management classes.

(Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.