I just saw this story on SFGATE
San Francisco police and Public Works crews dismantled a Financial District encampment early today that had been occupied by activists protesting economic inequality.
About 80 officers wearing riot helmets confronted some 200 campers and their supporters at about 12:45 a.m. at the Occupy SF camp in front of the Federal Reserve Bank's building at 101 Market St. near Main Street. The officers guarded city workers who removed tents, sleeping bags and other belongings.
One protester was arrested for allegedly assaulting an officer.
At around 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, police handed a notice to Occupy SF protesters that although the city and Police Department "celebrate and protect" free speech and the right to assemble, their encampment violated several city laws. They included a ban on having an open flame on a street or sidewalk, creating a public nuisance, disorderly conduct in lodging and serving food without a permit.
I have seen stories that similar things are happening in other cities such as Seattle.
Having lived in San Francisco for many years I remember that there was a protest camp of AIDS activist that lasted for a number of years. There was controversy about its existence at various times. I'd be curious to know how the details of the two situations compare.
This is probably the beginning of a lot more conflict of this type. It was the images of police violence on the Brooklyn Bridge that did a great deal to galvanize national interest and media attention in the movement. I would be inclined to tell the police to keep it up. You are providing us with great publicity.