In the last 48 hours, Los Angeles police have conducted hundreds of arrests as unrest continues for the fifth consecutive day, ignited by ICE operations aimed at undocumented immigrants.
In addition, 700 Marines deployed by the Trump administration are on standby for instructions, despite significant pushback from California officials. These troops are not permitted to make arrests.
A curfew was implemented starting at 8 p.m. Tuesday (local time, 6 a.m. Wednesday in Greece) in a designated area of downtown. Police used rubber bullets to disperse crowds.
Declared by Mayor Karen Bass, the curfew lifted at 6 a.m. Wednesday but is likely to be reinstated in the coming days.
Despite the curfew, police have reported ongoing gatherings. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell indicated that 197 individuals were arrested on Tuesday alone, primarily for ignoring dispersal orders, with about 100 arrests occurring the day before.
National Guard troops, who were previously deployed, remain active to safeguard ICE agents.
The situation has sparked a political uproar, with tensions between President Trump and Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. Trump justified the deployment of 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines to prevent “the takeover of the city by a foreign adversary,” pledging to “liberate” Los Angeles.
Newsom accused Trump of “attacking democracy” and intensifying violence, warning that “other states could follow.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated to CNN that the Trump administration is unafraid to enhance its legal authority for troop deployment in Los Angeles, asserting, “We’re prepared to take further actions if necessary” amid the ongoing political discord.
It’s worth noting that the National Guard does not possess arrest authority; their mission is to protect federal assets and personnel.
The 700 Marines are stationed approximately 60 kilometers outside downtown Los Angeles, awaiting deployment orders. Major General Scott Sherman mentioned they will soon be active on the streets and can temporarily detain individuals until police arrive.
Sherman added that these Marines are undergoing riot control training and will not carry live ammunition during their operations.
Protests on the Rise
Other cities across the U.S. are bracing for additional demonstrations, mobilizing local law enforcement in response.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has dispatched the state’s National Guard to San Antonio, declaring he will employ “every resource available” to assist law enforcement in maintaining order. Texas boasts the largest National Guard in the nation, comprising 22,000 troops.
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
