National Guard increases to 4,100 troops during LA protests against ICE

National Guard Deployed Amid LA Riots

The Department of Defense is mobilizing additional National Guard troops to safeguard federal properties in response to riots linked to anti-immigration enforcement in Los Angeles. Specifically, 2,000 Army National Guard soldiers from California will be activated to assist in protecting federal functions, personnel, and properties across the region.

The National Guard members will work alongside the 49th Army Police Brigade, the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and the 2nd Battalion of the 7th Marine Regiment under Task Force 51, led by Major General Scott M. Sherman.

Task Force 51 has faced scrutiny since it was established in various West Coast cities due to violent responses to immigration enforcement actions. Currently, the task force consists of approximately 4,100 National Guard personnel and 700 active-duty Marines.

In a recent lawsuit, California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the Trump administration for deploying troops without proper consultation with state law enforcement, describing the actions as “illegal.” In response, Trump remarked on social media about the inability of California’s governors to protect ICE officers during protests, framing it as a failure to support “great patriots.”

On Thursday, a US District Judge sided with Newsom, and the appellate court is now reviewing the situation. The Northern Command clarified that while military forces are not intended for civilian law enforcement, they are assigned to ensure robust support for federal agencies in the region.

Soldiers activated for this mission have received training in de-escalation techniques and crowd control to prepare for federal protection duties.

Rioting recently erupted in Paramount, just south of Los Angeles, after ICE conducted immigration sweeps. Violence quickly escalated, leading to confrontations between law enforcement and protesters. Reports indicate significant damage and looting, with notable anti-ICE and anti-Trump graffiti covering parts of downtown Los Angeles. The Secret Service mentioned that some graffiti included threatening messages.

On a recent morning, a group of 100 looters caused extensive damage at a local Autozone store, with losses estimated at $67,000. Investigations are underway to determine if this incident is connected to broader disturbances in the area.