LA Erupts: Protests Over ICE Raids Turn Violent, National Guard Deployed

Los Angeles Protests Over ICE Raids Turn Violent: National Guard Deployed Amidst Clashes Los Angeles, CA – Tensions escalated on Sunday in downtown Los Angeles as a third day of protests against recent ICE raids turned violent. The demonstrations, which began peacefully, saw clashes between law enforcement and protesters, resulting in numerous arrests. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported 17 arrests on the 101 Freeway, while the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) made 10 arrests in the city center. Officials expect more arrests as the day progresses. The Trump administration's decision to deploy National Guard troops to Los Angeles further inflamed the situation. President Trump stated on social media Saturday night, “The federal government will step in and solve the problem.” This move, however, was met with criticism from Mayor Karen Bass, who countered, “This is posturing. The city is not out of control.” The video footage shows tense standoffs between protesters and law enforcement, including instances of tear gas and less-lethal rounds being fired. The protests also involved the destruction of property, with a group of people attacking five Waymo self-driving taxis, setting three on fire. An unlawful assembly was later declared. California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a formal request on Sunday to the Trump administration to rescind the order deploying troops to Los Angeles County. Mayor Bass appealed for peaceful protest, stating, “People should exercise their right to protest…but people should also exercise that right peacefully. We do not want to play into the administration’s hands.” The situation remains tense, with more protests planned for the coming week.