Demonstrations ignited Saturday across Los Angeles County after ICE launched federal raids in Paramount and downtown, prompting rapid deployment of tear gas and less‑lethal munitions. Protesters rallied—some violently—near a Home Depot staging area as federal agents worked nearby. President Trump responded by ordering 2,000 National Guard troops to support ICE, despite criticism from Gov. Newsom and Mayor Bass. This article explores crowd‑control tactics, the motivations behind the protest, and the constitutional authority of the president to deploy federal forces. As federal and local tensions rise, citizens are encouraged to support lawful enforcement, border protection, and the peaceful preservation of safety in their communities.

 

Crowd‑Control Tactics Deployed

Law enforcement faced volatile confrontations with protesters, resorting to less‑lethal munitions—tear gas canisters, flash‑bangs, rubber bullets—and blast balls designed to disperse without bullets. Tactical teams employed unarmed baton charges, forming structured lines to redirect crowds while reducing physical harm. The National Guard’s troop deployment included personnel from the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, trained specifically for crowd safety around federal buildings. These forces prioritized protecting property and users without overstepping civilian authority.

Who, What & Why of the Protest

The protests erupted after ICE raids in Paramount—chiefly near a Home Depot—and in Downtown L.A. and Boyle Heights, which triggered widespread anger. Over 100 undocumented individuals were arrested, prompting crowds to gather in protest. Some demonstrators resorted to throwing projectiles and blocking roads; law enforcement responded with crowd-control methods. By early Sunday, 8 June; one person was charged, and multiple arrests had been made confirmed by the Sheriff’s Department.

Presidential Stance & Federal Action

President Trump defended the enforcement and border-security focus, asserting full support for ICE actions to remove “criminal” undocumented immigrants. He authorized the General Guard under Title 10, marking the first federalized deployment in L.A. since 1992. Trump also hinted at possible Marine deployment from Camp Pendleton if unrest escalated—though lawmakers like Senator Ron Johnson believed the National Guard sufficed.

Federal vs. State Dispute

Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass denounced the decision as “purposefully inflammatory,” calling ICE raids provocative and unnecessary. They emphasized local agencies could effectively maintain order without military involvement  . This tension spotlights the constitutional interplay between state and federal roles in law enforcement—though under Title 10, presidential authority prevails in federal domains.

National Guard’s Crowd-Control Skillset

The National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles were specifically trained for high-tension crowd control situations. Their preparation included safeguarding perimeters at federal sites, deploying non-lethal tools such as tear gas and flash-bangs under strict protocols, and working in close coordination with civilian law enforcement to ensure lawful assemblies could proceed safely. These troops were also trained to enforce designated safety zones while respecting the rights of peaceful protesters. Their presence aimed to deter violence and minimize risks to both civilians and officers.

View More Coverage

For a deeper look at the events unfolding in Los Angeles, national media outlets have released extensive footage and analysis. The TODAY Show covered the moment President Trump officially ordered National Guard troops into the city amid escalating ICE-related protests. MSNBC reported on the widespread backlash sparked by the visible presence of immigration enforcement agents across Southern California. Meanwhile, NBC News provided live coverage of the protests at the Paramount Home Depot, where tensions first erupted.

 

 

Takeaway

The Constitution entrusts the president as both head of state and Commander-in-Chief, authorizing federal deployments to safeguard national borders, federal properties, and public order. While local leadership must remain vigilant, there’s also a responsibility for citizens to support lawful, peaceful protests and encourage loved ones to adhere to the law—including during holidays and community gatherings. When federal, state, and local cooperation is upheld, public safety and civic freedom can coexist.