Protests against a federal immigrant raid caused significant disruption in Los Angeles on Saturday.
“We’re bringing in the National Guard tonight. We’ll continue to take action and enforce the law,” was claimed in a report.
Footage depicted a chaotic environment as hundreds of protesters rallied and clashed with federal agents trying to stop arrests in Paramount, California, near a Home Depot.
The scene was quite intense—armed agents fired tear gas at demonstrators, who had been incensed for hours, leading to a tumultuous occupation of the streets.
In one instance, a protester wearing a helmet threw a rock at a car window near the store.
Online videos also captured an American flag burning in the street across from the home improvement store amidst the protests.
Throughout the day, protesters blocked federal buses carrying individuals suspected of illegal immigration, as seen in various social media posts.
According to the American Civil Liberties Union in Southern California, federal agents targeted several workplaces in LA’s fashion district and other areas on Friday.
The actions of the Trump administration came under fire from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who criticized the violent reaction of crowds against immigration and customs enforcement.
Homeland Security Director Tricia McLaughlin stated that the rhetoric from Bass had contributed to the chaos, which saw up to 1,000 individuals attacking law enforcement, vandalizing property, slashing tires, and committing other crimes.
McLaughlin called the violence against law enforcement “despicable,” urging Mayor Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom to put an end to it.
She also noted a staggering 413% increase in assaults on ICE agents since early January.
Images released by the Department of Homeland Security depicted parts of downtown LA marked with aggressive graffiti, showcasing messages like “F-K Ice” and “Kill Ice.”
Los Angeles police did not respond to inquiries regarding the situation.
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo expressed concerns about the ICE raids and protests occurring in both LA and New York City, stating they represent a troubling escalation of immigration enforcement that erodes community trust.
Cuomo asserted that while he believes in the rule of law, the operations are characterized by military tactics, including the use of flashbangs and aggressive detention of individuals attempting to document the events.
Reports indicated that hundreds of immigrants, including children, were detained by ICE agents on Friday, though the Department of Homeland Security reported 118 arrests linked to this operation, including five gang members with prior criminal histories.
Bass denounced the ICE actions, arguing they instill fear and compromise safety within communities.
No comments were received from the Department of Homeland Security or the California State Guard regarding the protests.
