Bill Essayle, a U.S. lawyer in the Central District of California, shared insights with Breitbart News on Monday. California Governor Gavin Newsom remarked on the need to be cautious about the riots in his city, suggesting perhaps just “turn on the TV.”
His comments came in response to President Donald Trump’s assertion that the federal government should intervene to quash the riots, arguing that state and local officials could manage the situation.
Federal prosecutors, speaking from a command center in LA monitoring the unrest, expressed concern. “From here on, it doesn’t look good,” one stated, noting the presence of antifa-style agitators and anarchists.
He pledged a strong federal response, indicating that rioters should expect “very heavy enforcement.” Many individuals already detained would face federal charges related to looting under laws like the Hobbs Act and charges linked to the use of Molotov cocktails against officers.
He pointed out that the actions of these rioters could hinder immigration enforcement efforts. The federal government’s commitment to immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) remains strong despite the chaos and pushback from various officials.
“They think they can intimidate us with riots and noise,” he added. “That might have worked before, but this administration isn’t backing down,” he continued.
The lawyer did not blame President Trump for escalating violence, countering claims from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Instead, he emphasized that it was the mob who instigated attacks, both on law enforcement and local residents.
When asked about a potential Department of Justice investigation into Governor Newsom over threats to withhold federal funds and other issues, the lawyer declined to comment. There was also no discussion on the possibility of arresting Newsom, despite suggestions from “border emperor” Tom Homan about taking action if he interfered with ICE operations.
He highlighted the hypocrisy of a local leader regarding the arrest of California President David Fuerta’s Service Employee International Union (SEIU) member, saying officers treated him like any other suspect, even as elected officials ignored the broader issues surrounding the arrests.
When asked if there was any hope for the situation, he noted it was the first instance he had heard of local leaders openly condemning violence.
He mentioned that ICE agents are fulfilling their duties based on court orders signed by judges.
Having been a Republican state legislator before his appointment as U.S. lawyer by President Trump, he previously held the role of assistant U.S. lawyer for the district. With local leaders seemingly dismissing residents’ concerns, he has become a voice for those frustrated by crime, police violence, and illegal immigration.
