Man Admits to Possessing Molotov Cocktail During Immigration Enforcement Protest
Introduction to the Incident
A Mexican national pleaded guilty Wednesday to possessing a Molotov cocktail during a June 7 protest in Paramount stemming from federal immigration enforcement operations.
Emiliano Garduno Galvez, 23, an undocumented immigrant living in Paramount, entered a plea in Los Angeles federal court to possession of an unregistered destructive device and civil disorder.
Details of the Plea and Potential Sentence
Sentencing was scheduled for Jan. 30, at which time Galvez could face up to 15 years in federal prison, according to the U.S. Justice Department.
The Incident and Charges
An affidavit filed with the complaint charging Galvez states that he lit and threw a Molotov cocktail over a wall where Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies were engaging in crowd control activities — then ran away.
A crowd had assembled in the location earlier in the day near a staging area for federal agents who were preparing for immigration enforcement operations, prosecutors said.
Publication Information
Originally Published: October 1, 2025 at 7:39 PM PDT
Conclusion
The guilty plea by Emiliano Garduno Galvez marks a significant development in the case related to the immigration enforcement protest in Paramount. The possession of a Molotov cocktail and engagement in civil disorder during such protests underscore the potential for violent escalations during civil unrest. As the sentencing approaches, it will be crucial to observe how the justice system addresses such incidents, balancing the need for public safety with the rights of individuals to protest.
FAQs
What was Emiliano Garduno Galvez charged with?
Emiliano Garduno Galvez was charged with possession of an unregistered destructive device and civil disorder.
What is the potential sentence Galvez could face?
Galvez could face up to 15 years in federal prison.
When is the sentencing scheduled?
The sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 30.
What sparked the protest where Galvez was involved?
The protest was sparked by federal immigration enforcement operations in Paramount.
