Unrest in Downtown LA: LAPD Declares Unlawful Assembly Amid Anti-ICE Protests
The Los Angeles Police Department declared an unlawful assembly in the downtown area on Sunday night after protesters failed to disperse. The LAPD’s Central Division reported that “agitators have splintered into and through out the Downtown Area,” urging residents, businesses, and visitors to be alert and report any criminal activity. Protesters marched into the L.A. Live area, blocking lanes on Figueroa and 11th streets, prompting police to respond to several locations to disperse crowds.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has been overseeing the response to the anti-ICE riots, meeting with state emergency officials. Newsom taunted Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, saying “come and get me” if he’s concerned about Newsom’s stance on the issue. Newsom emphasized that local law enforcement didn’t need help, but Trump sent troops anyway, manufacturing chaos and violence.
Retired FBI special agent Jason Pack described the situation in LA as “rare,” noting that the National Guard’s federalization and collaboration with federal law enforcement is unusual. Pack highlighted the FBI’s role in identifying violent offenders and holding them accountable, stating that when federal officers are assaulted, it’s no longer a protest, but a crime scene.
