Law enforcement officials have arrested 10 individuals on federal charges related to violence and civil disorder during protests against immigration enforcement in Southern California earlier this year, according to the Justice Department. One additional defendant is currently in state custody and is expected to be transferred to federal authorities, while another remains a fugitive. In total, 12 people face federal charges for alleged acts of violence against law enforcement officers and property.
“There is zero tolerance for violence against law enforcement officers,” said Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “During the summer we warned the public that anyone who engages in any violence will eventually be brought to justice. Today we are delivering on that promise and will continue to hold those who violated the law accountable.”
Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, “Acts of violence against the brave law enforcement officers who protect us are an attack on civilized society itself. As today’s arrests and charges illustrate, anyone who engages in such disgusting conduct will face severe consequences from this Department of Justice.”
HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang emphasized constitutional rights but drew a line at violent acts: “While the Constitution protects the freedom of speech and the freedom to peaceably assemble, it does not provide for the freedom to assault federal officers, impede or obstruct federal officers or conspire to do so, or destroy government property. We will vigorously protect the rights to free speech and free and peaceful assembly, but we will also, without fear or favor, deliver consequences and bring accountability to those criminals that violate federal law.”
Akil Davis, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, added: “The FBI safeguards civil rights and the right to protest peacefully, but there is no place in a civilized society for violence targeted at law enforcement, nor the destruction of government property. Our agents and police partners are carrying out their duties lawfully and should be able to do so without violent interference. I urge anyone with information about these unidentified subjects wanted for civil disorder and arson to come forward to assist us and claim the reward of up to $10,000.”
Special Agent in Charge Kenny Cooper of ATF’s Los Angeles Field Division commented: “Violence has no place in our society. Peaceful protest is a right; assault is a crime. The ATF will continue to stand with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who serve and protect our communities can do so safely.”
In one case (United States v. Reyes et al.), Virginia Reyes of Oxnard remains at large while Isai Carrillo was arrested on charges including conspiracy to impede or injure a federal officer—an offense punishable by up to five years in prison. According to court documents, protesters associated with VC Defensa allegedly constructed roadblocks using farm equipment during an immigration operation at Glass House Farms in Camarillo on July 10. Protesters reportedly threw rocks at government vehicles as they attempted alternate exits; four vehicles were damaged and one contract employee was injured.
Another complaint (United States v. Coreas et al.) involves nine defendants accused of obstructing law enforcement during a June 8 protest near downtown Los Angeles’ Civic Center after immigration operations began two days prior. While most demonstrators protested peacefully, some engaged in violent acts—including throwing objects at California Highway Patrol officers stationed on U.S. Highway 101 after protesters blocked traffic lanes—and vandalized buildings with graffiti.
A separate complaint (United States v. Canil) charges Yovany Marcario Canil with assaulting a federal officer by pepper-spraying into an FBI SWAT vehicle during demonstrations outside an apparel warehouse on June 6.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Federal agencies involved include the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and ATF; several Assistant United States Attorneys are prosecuting these cases.
The FBI continues its search for additional suspects connected with anti-immigration enforcement protests earlier this year:
https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/civil-disorder-1
