Demonstrations in downtown Los Angeles led to multiple street closures and the deployment of tear gas Saturday as officers worked to disperse protestors. At least two dozen people have been detained by the Los Angeles Police Department as of late Saturday evening.
Protests and Closures
Hundreds of people gathered earlier Saturday to protest ICE in the downtown area. The LAPD closed Spring Street between Temple and First Street due to the demonstrations. Later, Alameda Street between Aliso and Temple was also closed in both directions, around 6 p.m., because protestors were in the roadway.
Escalation and Arrests
The situation escalated around 9 p.m. when federal authorities responded to protestors throwing bottles, rocks, and industrial-size fireworks. They deployed tear gas into the crowd. Shortly after, at 9:15 p.m., the LAPD issued a dispersal order, and by 9:20 p.m., declared the gathering an unlawful assembly.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated via social media, “We’re not playing. We have surged federal officers to protect our property and our employees. I have authorized probable cause arrests for those who break the law, and they will be charged federally.” NewsChopper4 video showed federal agents pushing back protestors and detaining at least one individual, leading them toward the federal detention center.
The affected streets remained closed as of late Saturday evening as law enforcement continued to clear the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the street closures?
Spring Street between Temple and First Street, and Alameda Street between Aliso and Temple, were closed due to protestors demonstrating in the area, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
What actions did law enforcement take?
Federal authorities deployed tear gas after being targeted with bottles, rocks, and fireworks. The LAPD issued a dispersal order and declared an unlawful assembly.
What is the stated intention regarding arrests?
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated that arrests have been authorized for those who break the law, and those arrested will be charged federally.
As authorities continue to clear the area, it is possible that further arrests could be made. The situation could remain tense in the coming hours, and the long-term implications of the protests and law enforcement response remain to be seen.
