Oakland Rings in New Year with Protests

Oakland city officials are alerting residents about demonstrations planned in the city  on Wednesday into New Year's Eve.

In a notice to residents, city officials said, "We provide this information to raise awareness about these events, not to alarm, so that you may plan ahead."

Oakland officials said the organizers of the protest haven't received a permit from the city.

A flier for the protest says it will start at 9:30 p.m. at Frank Ogawa Plaza, next to City Hall, and include a march to the Glenn Dyer jail on Sixth Street.

The flier tells participants to "bring friends, noisemakers, fireworks."

It explains that the purpose of the demonstration is to "bring the noise to inmates in North County Jail," and it is "in solidarity with prisoners and prison rebels across the globe."

Oakland officials said organizers of Wednesday's event, which will mark the fifth anniversary of the fatal shooting of Oscar Grant III by a BART police officer at the Fruitvale station in Oakland, have received a permit.

The event will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at the Fruitvale station.

Oakland officials said in a statement, "Keeping peace on our streets and protecting the safety of Oakland residents and businesses is our top priority."

They said, "Although we don't anticipate problems to occur, in the event that the demonstrations become unlawful, the Oakland Police Department is prepared to swiftly address any criminal behavior that would damage property or jeopardize the safety of the public or police officers."