Protesters Arrested for Allegedly Trying to Block Rose Parade Float

By City News Service

Sixteen animal rights activists were arrested Wednesday for allegedly trying to block Sea World's float during the 125th Tournament of Roses Parade, police said.

Around 9:30 a.m., members of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) reportedly tried to get in the way of the float's path at Orange Grove Boulevard and Ellis Street, in front of Tournament House and ahead of the official start of the parade, said Lt. Terysa Rojas of the Pasadena Police Department.

"They were trying to impede the Sea World float, but they were unsuccessful because the law enforcement out there was able to whisk them away without hindering the float all," Rojas said.

Video of the event posted by PETA showed the float was stopped for more than a minute, but it was not known if the float was hindered on its way to the starting line.

The confrontation was several blocks away from the live TV camera positions, and was not seen on KTLA or the two national networks that originated telecasts from the parade.

Sea World's float entry, "The Sea of Surprise," featured killer Orca whales, which PETA believes should be free. Fifteen juveniles and one minor were arrested for allegedly trying to delay a public event, a misdemeanor violation, without incident or injury, said the lieutenant.

They were to be booked and released on their promises to appear in court, Rojas said.