SANTA MONICA—On June 7, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) gave an update on the June 6, ICE Raids in LA County. ICE agents were executing search warrants in the area, arresting criminal illegal aliens, and those who were harboring them.
Initial reports indicated that there was a large police presence in the area. Statements made by LAPD Police Chief Jim McDonald stated that LAPD officers “would not be cooperating with ICE.” The presence of the local police was required to help maintain peace until the U.S. military arrived.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Acting Director, Todd Lyons issued the following statement on the ICE website.
“Our brave officers were vastly outnumbered, as over 1,000 rioters surrounded and attacked a federal building. It took over two hours for the Los Angeles Police Department to respond, despite being called multiple times. The brave men and women of ICE were in Los Angeles arresting criminal illegal aliens including gang members, drug traffickers, and those with a history of assault, cruelty to children, domestic violence, robbery, and smuggling.”
On June 7, an Anti-ICE – Anti-Homeland Security protest broke out in Paramount, California causing road closures by local police. The situation escalated with protestors throwing everything from fireworks to cinder blocks at local law enforcement. Protesters lit a car on fire in the street.
President Trump deployed 2,000 troops, (approximately 300 soldiers) of the California National Guard to assist with crowd control.
California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the use of the military.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued the following remarks:
“This morning, we received reports of federal immigration enforcement actions in multiple locations in Los Angeles. As Mayor of a proud city of immigrants, who contribute to our city in so many ways, I am deeply angered by what has taken place.
These tactics sow fear in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city. My office is in close coordination with immigration rights organizations. We will not stand for this.”
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller responded to Mayor Bass:
“You have no say in this at all. Federal law is supreme, and federal law will be enforced.”
Executive Associate Director of Enforcement and Removal Operations, Tom Homan reminded the public that harboring a person who is in the country illegally, is classified as “Felony.” Homan told NBC that he would not rule out arrest if Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass interfered with the immigration raids.
President Trump issued a Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense, Attorney General, and Secretary of Homeland Security; “Department of Defense Security for the Protection of Department of Homeland Security Functions.” The full text of the President’s Memorandum may only be viewed on the White House webpage.
Reports indicate that at least 118 people were arrested and detained between June 6-7th. More reports and updates to follow.