Introduction to the Unrest in Downtown LA
An Apple Store and other downtown Los Angeles businesses were looted and damaged after largely peaceful protests during daylight hours turned violent Monday evening and led to more than 100 arrests during a fourth day of demonstrations over immigration enforcement raids.
Arrests and Injuries
As of Tuesday morning, the department reported 96 arrests for failure to disperse Monday in the downtown area, where largely peaceful protests during the day turned violent in the evening. There was one arrest for assault with a deadly weapon, one for resisting arrest and another for vandalism, police said. The LAPD reported 14 arrests for looting. Two LAPD officers were injured and transported to a hospital for treatment and released.
Extent of the Damage
The damage included a smashed window at an Apple Store, where some merchandise was stolen and graffiti was painted on windows. Looters also targeted an Adidas store, pharmacy, marijuana dispensary and other locations. Video showed a damaged jewelry store with merchandise cleared from shelves. Los Angeles Police Department Officer Chris Miller told City News Service one woman was arrested at the scene of the Apple Store burglary. At least two other people were seen being taken into custody by police for looting.
Response from Authorities
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed her frustration with the Trump administration’s decision to mobilize military personnel in response to the demonstrations in the city. Monday’s violence erupted after dozens of arrests over the weekend by various law enforcement agencies. The LAPD said its officers arrested 21 people Sunday, including one person on suspicion of attempted murder for allegedly using a Molotov cocktail against officers. People have also directed commercial grade fireworks at officers, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell added.
Community and Political Reaction
Historic Core Business Improvement District Executive Director Blair Besten said the organization is calling for a curfew and a National Guard presence in the area. A team of prosecutors with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office will review arrest reports and examine social media posts to determine whether criminal charges will be filed. Local authorities have repeatedly condemned the presence of "agitators" who take advantage of political protests for criminal purposes. In a post Tuesday on X, Mayor Karen Bass said, "Let me be clear: ANYONE who vandalized Downtown or looted stores does not care about our immigrant communities. You will be held accountable."
Deployment of National Guard and Marines
On Sunday morning, about 300 federalized National Guard members were deployed to federal properties in Los Angeles, including the downtown LA Metropolitan Detention Center. McDonnell said the LAPD has a very good relationship with the National Guard after working closely together for months during the Palisades Fire that ignited Jan. 7. More National Guard troops and about 700 Marines were activated by the federal government at the start of the week. A battalion of Marines deployed to LA is there Tuesday and ready to respond, the commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric Smith, said at a budget hearing before senators. The Marines will receive orders from the U.S. Northern Command, but Smith clarified they have not yet been called to respond. The Marines are trained for crowd control and will carry shields and batons, Smith said. He reiterated that they have no arrest authority and are only there to protect federal property and personnel.
Conclusion
The situation in downtown LA highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement and local authorities in maintaining peace during protests. The deployment of the National Guard and Marines underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for a coordinated response to protect both protesters’ rights and public safety. As the city moves forward, it will be crucial to address the underlying issues that sparked the protests and to find a balance between allowing peaceful demonstrations and preventing violence and looting.
FAQs
- Q: How many arrests were made in connection with the protests in downtown LA?
A: As of Tuesday morning, 96 arrests were reported for failure to disperse, among other charges. - Q: What businesses were looted or damaged during the unrest?
A: An Apple Store, an Adidas store, a pharmacy, a marijuana dispensary, and a jewelry store were among the businesses looted or damaged. - Q: Were any law enforcement officers injured during the protests?
A: Yes, two LAPD officers were injured and transported to a hospital for treatment and released. - Q: What is the role of the National Guard and Marines deployed to LA?
A: They are deployed to protect federal property and personnel, with the Marines specifically trained for crowd control and carrying shields and batons, but they have no arrest authority. - Q: How has the city’s mayor responded to the situation?
A: Mayor Karen Bass expressed frustration with the federal response and condemned the actions of looters, stating they will be held accountable.
