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Clashes in California during 'choke hold death' protest

Police and protesters have clashed in California as the public expressed anger over a court's decision not to indict a white police officer over the death of unarmed black man, who died after being put into a "choke hold" by the officer.

A US Grand Jury decided not to charge New York officer Daniel Pantaleo over the death of Eric Garner who he arrested for allegedly selling un-taxed cigarettes..

The country's Attorney General, Eric Holder, has since announced a federal civil rights investigation into the case.

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Clashes in California at 'choke hold death' protest

Police and protesters clashed in California last night as the public expressed anger over a court's decision not to indict a white police officer over the "choke hold" death of an unarmed black man.

Police officers scuffle with protesters during a protest against police violence in the US, in Berkeley, California Credit: REUTERS/Noah Berge

Demonstrations turned violent as missiles were thrown at police and windows were smashed in Berkeley as residents reacted over Wednesday's grand jury decision not to take further action over the death of Eric Garner.

Garner's death sparked public outcry after he was captured on video gasping "I can't breathe" while he was being arrested for selling loose, untaxed cigarettes.

Police officers scuffle with protesters as tear gas is deployed to disperse the crowd Credit: REUTERS/Noah Berger

US citizens had protested peacefully in New York and Boston earlier this week but yesterday's demonstration became more heated and local media reported that tear gas and smoke bombs had to be used to disperse the crowd.

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Clashes in California during 'choke hold death' protest

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