Tensions in Los Angeles have reached a boiling point, and former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino is sounding the alarm.
After reports surfaced that rioters were throwing rocks at ICE agents during law enforcement operations in the city, Bongino issued a clear and firm warning to those involved. He urged the public to help identify the individuals caught on video and made it known that the FBI is actively investigating.
“We’re looking for those throwing rocks at federal vehicles during official operations,” Bongino posted on X (formerly Twitter). “One suspect was even wearing a helmet. If that’s you, turn yourself in—it’s only a matter of time.”
FBI Director Kash Patel also spoke out, promising that justice will be served. “If you assault law enforcement, expect to be arrested,” he said. “It doesn’t matter who you are or what group you belong to. If local leaders won’t back our officers, the FBI will.”
The unrest began Friday when ICE agents carried out several raids across Los Angeles, including one at a warehouse in the Fashion District. The operation was based on a judge’s ruling that the employer may have been using fake documents for employees, according to Homeland Security Investigations.
As word spread, crowds quickly formed to block ICE vehicles, leading to tense standoffs. Protesters also gathered outside a downtown federal building amid rumors that detainees were being held there.
By Saturday, demonstrations had spread to other areas, including Paramount, where more suspected immigration enforcement activity was reported. Protesters chanted, held signs opposing ICE, and, in some cases, spray-painted buildings. Emotions ran high.
Among those arrested during the protests was David Huerta, president of the regional Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Justice Department spokesperson Ciaran McEvoy confirmed Huerta is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles and is expected in court Monday.
In response to the escalating situation, President Trump issued an emergency order Saturday night under Title 10 Authority, deploying 2,000 National Guard troops to LA County for up to 60 days. He made it clear that the federal government would step in if state and city officials couldn’t control the situation.
“If Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass won’t act, the federal government will,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Riots and looting must be stopped.”
Most of the National Guard troops will come from within California, though the Defense Secretary has the power to call on additional forces if necessary. In fact, active-duty Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton are already on high alert.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also addressed the nation via social media. “These attacks on ICE and federal agents are dangerous,” he wrote. “They’re part of a larger effort to block the removal of criminal illegal immigrants—this is a serious national security issue.”
He ended with a message of reassurance: “Under President Trump, violent attacks on federal agents or property won’t be tolerated. It’s just common sense. The National Guard is moving in to help—and if needed, the Marines are ready.”