Activists held rally in support for Freddie Gray near Galleria

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Activists in Houston held a rally in support of Freddie Gray and the strife in Baltimore.

A few dozen people held signs and chanted at the intersection of Post Oak Blvd and Westheimer near the Galleria for passers-by to see. They spent a couple of hours at the high-profile location, showing their support for what they say is needed change in the criminal justice system. The events in Baltimore are their behind the demonstration.

"While we know the 6 officers were indicted in Baltimore, we still know there's a lot of cops, a lot of police violence that's taking place right now. We need to continue to put pressure on the nation to start holding cops accountable," said Shere Dore, a protester.

Those working in nearby stores were frustrated by the rally.

"Because they're out here protesting, I've had 12 people in our store today. They say they have a cause but what is there cause? If they were thinking about people, thinking about other people's property, they wouldn't be doing what they're doing," said Debra Vise.

Houston police were prepared for bigger crowds, but didn't need many of the barricades they brought.