FBI director Kash Patel issued a cautionary statement on Saturday in response to ongoing protests in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
Patel told Fox News, “Assaulting a law enforcement officer means you’re going to prison—no exceptions. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, how you got here, or what you say you stand for.”
He further emphasized, “If the local authorities don’t support the officers wearing badges, the FBI will step in.”
These remarks came amid heightened tensions during confrontations between ICE agents and demonstrators attempting to obstruct operations targeting undocumented immigrants, according to Breitbart News.
Patel reiterated his point later, stating, “If you hit the police, expect to face jail time… again, it doesn’t matter about your background. If local law enforcement doesn’t protect our officers, we at the FBI will.”
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump announced plans to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles, aiming to address the violence directed at ICE agents as part of a strict approach to criminal activities. The President has authorized sending 2,000 national guardsmen.
Various video clips surfaced, depicting scenes from Los Angeles, including instances of objects being thrown at police vehicles.
Another video showed a car ablaze in an intersection, and a motorcyclist was seen flying a Mexican flag nearby.
Yet more footage indicated protesters pouring gasoline into the vehicle before igniting it.
According to a report from Fox, U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael W. Banks stated that some agents had sustained injuries during the unrest due to being struck by rocks.
Banks declared, “There have been multiple arrests for assaults on federal officers. We will not tolerate attacks against our staff. Those responsible will face charges.” He shared this via a social media post.
Dan Bongino, the FBI’s Deputy Director, remarked that multiple arrests occurred on Saturday due to interference with law enforcement, warning of potential future actions.
He added, “As we continue to review footage, expect more arrests. Disorder will lead to handcuffs. Ultimately, law and order will prevail.”
