Ferguson protesters released from jail in Los Angeles

FERGUSON, Mo. -- Dozens of protesters arrested in downtown Los Angeles Wednesday night were released from jail Thursday. Some of the arrested faced the prospect of remaining in jail through the holiday weekend, but LAPD Chief Charlie Beck ordered the release of about 90 people who remained locked up Thursday.

The Los Angeles Police Department revised the number of people arrested Wednesday night to 145. Dozens of protesters were ordered to disperse by police, and were arrested when they did not comply. Police said people were endangering themselves and others in traffic.

"We certainly have the legal right to keep everybody detained until their court appearance where they post bail. but with the holiday here we want to make sure people have the opportunity to have dinner with their family," said LAPD Commander Andrew Smith Thursday afternoon.

Smith said about 90 people were still jailed and would be released on their own recognizance without having to post $500 bail.

Thanksgiving Day was quiet in Ferguson, Missouri and across the country after days of protests following the grand jury announcement not to indict officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown.

People decorated boarded-up storefronts and attended church services and turkey giveaways Thursday.

No police or National Guard troops were seen guarding the Ferguson police station, where people gathered to protest through the week.

Dozens of buildings were damaged or destroyed by fire in riots Monday night.

Protests have taken place across the country in response to Monday's announcement. More than 100 people were arrested in Los Angeles since Monday night for unlawful assembly during confrontations with police, as well as for blocking and vandalizing freeway lanes.

About 100 people marched in Ferguson Wednesday night, with no major confrontations and no property damage. Two people were arrested.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.