Border patrol agents in Los Angeles have reported success in addressing ongoing anti-ICE protests, which they describe as “long-term” issues, and union leaders are looking to intensify their efforts under President Trump.
“I’m not going to leave until I’m done,” said Paul Perez, President of the Border and Border Patrol Council, in a conversation with the Post this week.
His focus is on ensuring that Los Angeles remains safe and does not revert to a lawless state.
Agents from specialized divisions, including the Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC), were dispatched from Arizona to help restore order as riots erupted in Los Angeles, according to sources.
The exact number of deployed agents remains unclear.
Nonetheless, they are prepared with “pepperball launchers” and “chemical ammunition” to handle the protesters, Perez mentioned.
“Our agents are trained in riot control, which is a standard part of their training,” he added.
Violent protests escalated over the weekend, with rioters targeting federal agents, including customs officials, hurling rocks and bricks as the anti-ICE demonstrations turned aggressive.
The unrest began following ICE operations targeting illegal immigrant work sites, such as those in Home Depot parking lots.
Some demonstrators attempted to obstruct federal agents from arresting undocumented immigrants while looting occurred at local businesses.
To manage the situation, President Trump later deployed 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines.
Despite the presence of border agents in LA, the challenges remain, as some feel the focus on local issues distracts from the larger mission of securing the U.S.-Mexico border.
Perez mentioned that the goal for “operational management” at the border isn’t fully realized yet, but they are making progress.
Border agents are reportedly motivated and eager to meet high-level objectives during Trump’s administration.
“I think we’ll get there really quickly—definitely during President Trump’s term,” Perez expressed.
He noted that conditions under the Biden administration were at their lowest and emphasized the improved morale among agents now that Trump is in office.
