LA Police Crack Down: Mass Arrests as Protesters Challenge Overnight Curfew

Los Angeles is facing a tense situation as police implement mass arrests in response to ongoing protests. These demonstrations, sparked by Donald Trump’s immigration policies and military deployment, have led to a 10-hour curfew in downtown LA.

The LAPD reported that multiple groups continued to gather in defiance of the curfew. In just two days, over 300 protesters have been arrested. This crackdown follows Governor Gavin Newsom’s emergency request to prevent the Trump administration from deploying military forces to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during raids in the area.

Trump’s response included sending 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines to Los Angeles. While these troops are there for protection, they have no authority to make arrests. Newsom, alongside California Attorney General Rob Bonta, has challenged the legality of this military presence through a lawsuit, alleging that it violates state sovereignty.

In a passionate speech, Newsom criticized the indiscriminate targeting of immigrants. He highlighted alarming incidents, like ICE agents detaining a nine-month pregnant U.S. citizen outside of a Home Depot and making arrests at local schools. He warned that this kind of enforcement erodes safety for everyone.

The governor adds that Trump’s actions reflect a broader trend towards authoritarianism, emphasizing that it often begins by targeting the most vulnerable. He urges citizens to remain vocal and active against such oppression.

In contrast, Trump has disparaged the protesters, labeling them as “animals” and asserting that they are part of a foreign invasion. He has claimed that the unrest is fueled by paid rioters, a statement lacking credible evidence.

California’s military deployment has drawn criticism from many corners. Elected officials, including Senator Alex Padilla, have voiced concerns that this escalation only heightens tensions. The local sheriff’s department was caught off guard by the sudden federalization of the National Guard, leading to confusion over their mission.

Adding to the complexities, the U.S. Northern Command has stated that military forces deployed in LA have received training in de-escalation and crowd control. However, local law enforcement is wary of added pressures and challenges brought by this federal presence.

As the situation unfolds, it reveals deep divisions not only in Los Angeles but across the United States regarding immigration policy and the militarization of law enforcement.

For ongoing updates and further insights on the implications of these developments, visit The Guardian.

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