ICE enforcement operations in California spark violent protests, with demonstrators setting fires and National Guard troops deploying to restore order.
At a Glance
- Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons condemned violence during protests in Los Angeles following federal immigration raids
- Protesters reportedly used accelerants to start fires, with some wearing Mexican flags during demonstrations
- National Guard troops were called in to address escalating violence, with 2,000 ordered to Los Angeles
- ICE operations targeted individuals with criminal backgrounds, including gang members and drug traffickers
- Federal officials criticized sanctuary city politicians for allegedly contributing to violence against officers
Violent Clashes Erupt as Federal Agents Conduct Raids
Federal immigration raids in Los Angeles sparked intense protests that quickly turned violent, resulting in 44 arrests and forcing authorities to deploy tear gas and pepper spray. Acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons strongly condemned the violence, emphasizing that ICE was in Los Angeles specifically targeting individuals with criminal backgrounds, including gang members and drug traffickers. The enforcement operation became a flashpoint highlighting ongoing tensions between federal immigration authorities and local officials in sanctuary cities.
Demonstrators allegedly took dangerous actions during the protests, with reports indicating some protesters used accelerants to start fires. The situation escalated when a protester launched fireworks at police officers, starting a small brush fire that forced law enforcement to retreat. Multiple injuries were reported during confrontations in Compton, California, as authorities struggled to maintain control of increasingly volatile demonstrations.
Federal Officials Condemn Violence and Sanctuary Policies
Department of Homeland Security and ICE leadership issued strong statements criticizing both the violent protesters and local officials who they claim have hampered immigration enforcement. Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons specifically targeted Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, accusing her administration of prioritizing chaos over effective law enforcement. The violent response to immigration enforcement has prompted stern warnings from federal authorities.
“These violent rioters will be held accountable if they harm federal officers, and make no mistake, ICE will continue to enforce our nation’s immigration laws and arrest criminal illegal aliens. Sanctuary politicians would do well to remember that impeding our efforts only endangers their communities, law enforcement officers, and the detainees they claim to support.”, stated the ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons .
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino called for calm while warning protesters against attacking law enforcement officers. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem added her voice to those condemning the violence, highlighting that sanctuary city policies may contribute to dangerous conditions for federal officers attempting to enforce immigration laws. Federal officials maintain that protesters who assault officers will face prosecution.
National Guard Deployment Follows Escalating Situation
As the protests intensified and fires spread, authorities called in the National Guard to restore order in Los Angeles. Border Czar Tom Homan announced that 2,000 National Guard troops would be deployed to address the escalating violence. The decision came after multiple attempts by protesters to impede federal operations, including efforts to block ICE agents and reported attempts to break into federal buildings during demonstrations.
The Los Angeles protests are part of a nationwide response to increased immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s administration. Similar demonstrations occurred in New York and Chicago, where protesters also attempted to block ICE operations. Trump has prioritized immigration control through executive orders and enforcement of existing laws, including the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which allows for the detention or deportation of non-citizens. As investigations into assaults on law enforcement continue, federal officials promise accountability for violent actions against officers.
