Federal authorities are now seeking domestic terrorism charges against violent anti-ICE protesters who unleashed a wave of destruction across Los Angeles, resulting in 575 arrests as President Trump deploys Marines to restore order.
Key Takeaways
- Federal prosecutors are pursuing serious charges including attempted murder and potential domestic terrorism against violent anti-ICE protesters who used Molotov cocktails and concrete against officers.
- President Trump has deployed 700 U.S. Marines to assist local law enforcement in Los Angeles despite opposition from Democrat lawmakers.
- An illegal immigrant, Emiliano Garduno-Galvez, faces attempted murder charges for throwing a Molotov cocktail at federal officers.
- The IRS is investigating funding sources behind the organized protests as evidence mounts that anarchist groups are hijacking legitimate demonstrations.
- Law enforcement has made 575 arrests since the protests began, with multiple suspects facing federal charges carrying decades in prison.
Organized Violence Masquerading as Protest
What began as demonstrations against ICE raids in Los Angeles has evolved into organized violence that federal authorities now view as potential domestic terrorism. Investigations reveal sophisticated coordination among anarchist groups using legitimate protests as cover for criminal activities. Over 2,000 “No Kings Day” protests were held across the country with more than 5 million participants, but a core faction has been identified as responsible for escalating peaceful demonstrations into violent confrontations with law enforcement.
“This group wanted to commit crimes. They looked at the protest as a cover, an opportunity to go ahead and ply their illegal trade and commit a whole variety of crimes that, in many ways, has done a huge disservice to the legitimate protesters out there,” said Nathan Hochman, legal analyst.
Federal Charges and Presidential Response
The Trump administration has taken decisive action, charging multiple individuals with serious federal crimes. William Rubio faces felony charges for assaulting a police officer and using a destructive device during the riots. Alejandro Orellana is charged with conspiracy to commit civil disorder for allegedly distributing face shields to violent protesters. Perhaps most disturbing is the case of Adam Charles Palermo, charged with attempted arson of a vehicle, who could face up to 20 years in prison.
“[Palermo’s] social media account contained a collage of photographs and videos depicting a man holding flying debris, a CHP patrol car on fire, and various other damage to CHP patrol cars. He wrote, ‘All of the protests I’ve been involved in, which is well over 100 now. I’m most proud of what I did today,'” reported Bill Essayli, prosecutor.
Defining Domestic Terrorism in Anti-ICE Violence
While federal law defines domestic terrorism, there is no specific criminal charge by that name. Instead, prosecutors use existing statutes to pursue terrorism-related activities. Retired FBI agent Jason Pack explained that federal authorities may classify violent actions during protests as domestic terrorism if there is evidence individuals intended to intimidate the public or influence government policy through force. This classification allows for enhanced sentences and demonstrates the seriousness with which the administration is treating the violence.
“Federal authorities may describe violent actions during protests as ‘domestic terrorism’ if there is evidence the individuals intended to intimidate the public or influence government decisions through force,” stated Jason Pack, retired FBI agent.
Military Deployment and Investigation of Funding Sources
President Trump has deployed 700 U.S. Marines to assist in restoring peace in Los Angeles, a move that has received criticism from Democrat lawmakers but praise from law enforcement. The presence of military personnel working alongside local agencies has accelerated arrest rates and helped contain the violence. Simultaneously, the IRS has launched investigations into the funding behind these protests, examining various organizations and nonprofits suspected of financing violent activities.
“President Trump will always support and defend the brave law enforcement officers who are being attacked by the violent left-wing rioters. Those who target law enforcement officials will be held accountable to the full extent of the law,” declared Abigail Jackson, White House spokesperson.
Illegal Immigration Connection and National Security Concerns
The case of Emiliano Garduno-Galvez, an illegal immigrant charged with attempted murder for throwing a Molotov cocktail at federal officers, has intensified debate about the intersection of immigration enforcement and national security. This incident highlights concerns about who might be participating in these violent protests and their motivations. The FBI is now investigating organized efforts to cause chaos in Los Angeles and other cities, looking for connections between various anarchist groups and determining if there is foreign influence or support.
“These face shields are designed to protect from chemical splashes and flying debris, which helps protect violent agitators from less than lethal weapons deployed by law enforcement,” explained Bill Essayli, prosecutor, regarding evidence of premeditation among protesters.
