January 1, Feds Crack Down on Violent Anti-ICE Protests

Wyatt’s Take

• DOJ arrests 10 for violence at anti-ICE protests in California
• Federal officers say protesters ambushed government vehicles and cops
• Suspects face long prison sentences if convicted

The Justice Department arrested 10 people in Southern California this week for violent acts against law enforcement during anti-ICE protests earlier this year. Federal agencies like the FBI and ATF continue to investigate the attacks.

Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said,

“There is zero tolerance for violence against law enforcement officers.”

He promised those who break the law would be brought to justice, and the DOJ says it’s following through.

Virginia Reyes and Isai Carrillo of Oxnard are charged with conspiring to impede or hurt a federal officer. Carrillo was caught, while Reyes remains on the run.

Both could get up to five years in prison if convicted.

Government agents say their operation in July was blown on social media. Protesters allegedly blocked federal vehicles with farm equipment.

Officers trying to escape were met with rocks and improvised roadblocks, leading to damaged vehicles and at least one injury.

Nine others were hit with charges over a separate June riot in downtown Los Angeles. These suspects, ranging in age from early 20s to late 60s, allegedly interfered with police and blocked traffic after the protest was declared unlawful.

Authorities say objects like rocks, scooters, and street signs were hurled at police, even setting a CHP vehicle on fire. The DOJ nailed down these suspects thanks to photos and video evidence.

Eddy Wang from Homeland Security Investigations said,

“The Constitution protects the freedom of speech and the freedom to peaceably assemble, but 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.”

Another man, Yovany Marcario Canil, was arrested for assaulting a federal officer with pepper spray that burned members of the FBI’s SWAT team during a June operation. He faces up to eight years if convicted.

Assistant Director Akil Davis of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office stated,

“Our agents and police partners are carrying out their duties lawfully and should be able to do so without violent interference.”

Law enforcement leaders say peaceful protest is protected, but violence and destruction will be met with consequences.

Our officers deserve respect, not rocks or pepper spray. Want to keep up with stories that defend law and order? Stick with us for the news that matters to Main Street.

Wyatt Matters

Backing the blue keeps our neighborhoods and families safe. There’s no room for violence when folks in uniform are out doing their jobs, protecting the rest of us.

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