A man wielding a slingshot was apprehended Friday night after allegedly launching a metal object at police during a protest against ICE in Los Angeles.
The individual, who remains unnamed in a post from the LAPD, was among at least five arrests made during a turbulent demonstration that saw participants clashing with federal agents outside a downtown detention center.
The LAPD released video footage from the riot, highlighting their use of pepper balls and tear gas to clear the area. Most protesters obscured their faces with masks, and some even donned gas masks.
Protesters set trash cans ablaze and sprayed graffiti, including “Fk ICE,” on nearby structures.
During a press briefing that same evening, Mayor Karen Bass appealed for calm among the demonstrators. She acknowledged the importance of protests but emphasized the necessity for them to remain peaceful. This plea came just hours after the court appearance of former CNN host Don Lemon, who was recently arrested for allegedly attacking a church in Minnesota.
“We cannot allow protests to turn destructive. Don’t be surprised if military presence returns to our cities,” she warned. “It’s vital that we express dissent without tearing apart our communities.”
The chaotic scene unfolded as a part of a broader “national shutdown” movement, which encourages participants to refrain from school, work, and shopping to spotlight concerns regarding the Department of Homeland Security.
As the police escalated their response, they noted ongoing clashes with protesters, indicating that violence against officers had not reached lethal levels. Live updates were shared on social media as the LAPD worked to disperse the crowd.
