Arrest in Los Angeles Riots

A man has been taken into custody for reportedly supplying military-grade bionic face shields to rioters during recent unrest in Los Angeles.

This morning, the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office arrested Alejandro Theodoro Orellana on charges of conspiracy, claiming he distributed these protective face shields amid the turmoil on Tuesday. 

U.S. Attorney Bill Essay noted on social media, “We are moving swiftly to identify and arrest individuals involved in organizing and supporting civil disorder in Los Angeles.”

Orellana’s detention might provide insights into the financial backing of the rioting activities in the city. He is allegedly linked to the Brown Berets, a Chicano Nationalist paramilitary group said to have leftist affiliations.

The Brown Berets in Los Angeles were inspired by the Black Panther Party and are known for their politically charged actions. Recently, people were seen arriving in downtown Los Angeles with bionic face shields, designed to protect against projectiles and chemicals.

These shields retail for about $60 and appear to be gear intended for conflict situations. A news commentator remarked on social media, “If you’re gearing up for an encounter with the police, this definitely looks like the equipment you’d consider. Who’s financially supporting this?”

Orellana’s arrest may lead to further examination of groups suspected of financing violence in Los Angeles. Republican Senator Josh Hawley has initiated an investigation into various organizations allegedly responsible for funding riots, including the Socialism and Liberation Party and Union Del Barrio, along with a coalition focused on immigration rights in the area.