Tension between police, protesters at Red Arrow Park: "They don't want us to take to the street"

MILWAUKEE -- Protesters gathered in downtown Milwaukee on Tuesday, July 12th for the second straight day -- to voice their concerns over recent officer-involved shootings in Louisiana (Alton Sterling) and Minnesota (Philando Castile).

The Coalition for Justice planned what they called a peaceful protest -- gathering at Red Arrow Park.

The planned protest got the attention of the Milwaukee Police Department. Chief Ed Flynn released a statement ahead of the planned rally and protest Tuesday.

And things got heated between police and protesters over whether the group would follow MPD's orders during the march and protest.

Chief Flynn in his statement encouraged protesters to obtain a permit for their demonstration -- and police said since that was not done, protesters must stay on the sidewalk, or risk arrest.

"Why can't y'all walk with us? Why can't y'all march with us? We ain't out here trying to rabble-rouse or commit violent crimes," Nate Hamilton said.

"You are not allowed on the roadway without a permit. That's your option. We offered options today. If there's a deviation from those options, we have to look at arrests," James Harpole, MPD assistant chief said.

"They don't want us to take to the street," Maria Hamilton said.

Tensions eventually died down, and protesters abided by the rules. They marched without incident.

"We are going to go around and love everyone for who they are. We tried to do that with the police, but they are unresponsive," Hamilton said.

No one was arrested during Tuesday's demonstration.

Those with the Coalition for Justice said they'll meet on Thursday to organize a bigger march -- one where people may be willing to be arrested.

Below is Chief Flynn's complete statement, issued ahead of Tuesday's rally and march:

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett issued this statement:

Below is a statement posted to the Coalition for Justice's Facebook page regarding Tuesday's protest: