L.A. Officials Prepare for More Protests After Night of Vandalism

Key Takeaways

• Since June 6, 2025, LA faced protests after ICE raids arrested 44 immigrants on day one.
• President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to LA without governor’s approval.
• Five Waymo self-driving cars burned; 29 protest-related arrests reported by June 8.

Los Angeles Faces Unrest After ICE Raids and National Guard Deployment

Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

Los Angeles is in the middle of its most intense period of unrest in years. Over the past three days, the city has seen large protests, vandalism, and violent clashes with law enforcement. This wave of turmoil began after a series of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids swept through neighborhoods like the Fashion District, Paramount, and Compton starting June 6, 2025. The federal response has included the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops—ordered by President Trump—marking the first time since 1965 that the National Guard has been federalized in Los Angeles without the governor’s approval. As of June 9, 300 troops are already on the ground, and more are expected in the coming days.

The unrest has led to property damage, including the burning of five Waymo self-driving vehicles and the looting of several businesses. City officials, business owners, and immigrant communities are all feeling the impact, with further protests and ICE operations expected to continue for at least the next month.

Escalation of Protests and Federal Response

The protests began on June 6, immediately after ICE conducted a series of high-profile raids in Los Angeles. These enforcement actions targeted both workplaces and public spaces, resulting in the arrest of 44 immigrants on the first day alone. Over the next two days, demonstrations grew in size and intensity, especially in Paramount and Compton, where as many as 400 people gathered. Clashes with police became more frequent, and by June 8, the situation had escalated to include vandalism, arson, and looting.

On June 8, at least five Waymo self-driving cars were set on fire in downtown Los Angeles. Businesses such as Jordan Studio 23, T-Mobile, and Adidas suffered vandalism and theft. The LAPD reported at least 29 protest-related arrests by Sunday morning, with more expected as demonstrations continued.

In response, President Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles. This move bypassed the usual requirement for state approval, sparking immediate backlash from California officials. As of June 9, 300 troops have arrived, with the rest expected soon.

Federal-State Tensions and Legal Challenges

The decision to send the National Guard without the governor’s consent has created a major conflict between federal and state authorities. Governor Gavin Newsom called the move “deranged behavior” and announced plans to sue the Trump administration, arguing that the deployment is illegal and escalates tensions unnecessarily. Mayor Karen Bass echoed these concerns, describing the federal response as a “chaotic escalation” and urging residents to protest peacefully.

Local law enforcement agencies, including the LAPD and the LA County Sheriff’s Department, have made it clear they will focus on maintaining order and protecting property. They have also stated they will not participate in immigration enforcement, distancing themselves from ICE operations.

President Trump has also announced a ban on masks at protests, saying it will help identify demonstrators. Legal experts warn this could violate First Amendment rights and make tensions worse.

Ongoing ICE Operations and Community Impact

ICE has confirmed that enforcement and removal operations will continue daily for at least the next 30 days in Los Angeles County. According to Rep. Nanette Barragán, 118 immigrants have already been arrested in the city this week, with 44 detained on Friday alone. These operations have created a climate of fear and anxiety in immigrant communities, with many people avoiding public spaces and seeking legal help.

For Immigrants:
– Increased risk of detention and deportation: ICE is targeting both workplaces and public areas.
– Heightened fear: Many immigrants are staying home, skipping work, and avoiding public events.
– Legal support: Community organizations are offering help, but resources are stretched thin.

For Businesses:
– Property damage: Vandalism and looting have hit downtown businesses hard.
– Insurance claims: Owners are advised to document all damage and report incidents to the LAPD.
– Uncertainty: Many businesses are closing early or boarding up windows in anticipation of more protests.

For Residents:
– Disrupted daily life: Protests have blocked major roads, including the 101 Freeway.
– Increased police and military presence: The sight of National Guard troops and armored vehicles has unsettled many people.
– Safety concerns: Residents are being told to avoid protest areas and follow official advisories.

Step-by-Step Guidance for Affected Parties

If Your Business Was Damaged:
1. Photograph all damage before cleaning up.
2. Report the incident to the LAPD or your local law enforcement agency.
3. File an insurance claim with all supporting documentation.
4. Stay updated by monitoring official advisories from the city and law enforcement.

If You Are Worried About ICE Enforcement:
1. Know your rights—consult with local immigrant advocacy groups.
2. Avoid unnecessary travel in areas where ICE is active.
3. Seek legal help if you or a family member is detained.
4. Follow updates from trusted community organizations and local officials.

For more information on your rights during ICE encounters, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services official page.

Multiple Perspectives on the Crisis

Federal Government:
President Trump and federal officials argue that the crackdown is necessary to restore order and enforce immigration law. They have emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to violence against federal agents and property. The deployment of the National Guard and the ongoing ICE operations are framed as essential steps to protect public safety.

State and Local Officials:
Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass have condemned the federal intervention, calling it provocative and counterproductive. They stress the need for de-escalation and local control, warning that the presence of federal troops could make the situation worse.

Protesters and Immigrant Advocates:
Community leaders and immigrant rights groups see the ICE raids and military deployment as an attack on civil liberties and immigrant rights. They are calling for an end to ICE operations and the withdrawal of federal troops, arguing that these actions only deepen mistrust and fear.

Business Owners:
Many business owners are frustrated by the property damage and the lack of effective protection. They are demanding better support from both local and federal authorities, as well as faster compensation for losses.

Background: Los Angeles as a Sanctuary City

Los Angeles declared itself a sanctuary city in November 2024, shortly after President Trump’s election victory. City officials anticipated a federal crackdown on undocumented immigrants and pledged to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. In May 2025, the Trump administration began targeting workplaces and public spaces for large-scale ICE raids, which quickly led to widespread protests.

The current unrest draws comparisons to past moments of crisis in Los Angeles, such as the 1992 riots, the 1965 Watts riots, and the 2020 George Floyd protests. Each of these events was marked by deep tensions between marginalized communities and law enforcement, and each left a lasting impact on the city.

Legal and Constitutional Questions

The deployment of the National Guard without state approval is unprecedented since the civil rights era. According to The Marshall Project, this raises serious constitutional and civil liberties concerns. Legal scholars warn that the mask ban at protests could violate the First Amendment, which protects free speech and the right to assemble. These legal battles could set important precedents for the future relationship between federal and state governments.

Governor Newsom’s planned lawsuit against the Trump administration could determine whether a president can deploy troops to a state without the governor’s consent. The outcome may shape how similar situations are handled in the future.

Practical Effects and Next Steps

For Immigrants:
– Stay informed: Follow updates from trusted sources and community organizations.
– Know your rights: Carry information about your legal rights during ICE encounters.
– Seek help: Contact local legal aid groups if you need assistance.

For Businesses:
– Document everything: Take photos and keep records of all damage.
– Report incidents: Notify law enforcement and file insurance claims promptly.
– Stay alert: Monitor official advisories and prepare for possible further unrest.

For Residents:
– Avoid protest areas: Stay away from places where demonstrations are happening.
– Follow official instructions: Listen to city and law enforcement advisories.
– Be prepared: Have a plan in case of emergency or further escalation.

Key Facts at a Glance

Official Contacts and Resources

• LAPD Non-Emergency: 1-877-ASK-LAPD (1-877-275-5273)
• LA County Sheriff’s Department: (213) 229-1700
• Governor’s Office: gov.ca.gov/contact
• City of Los Angeles: lacity.gov
• Immigrant Rights Legal Resources: National Immigration Law Center, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights

For live updates, follow:
– LAPD X (Twitter): @LAPDHQ
– LA Mayor’s Office: lamayor.org
– Governor Newsom’s Office: gov.ca.gov

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?

The situation in Los Angeles remains highly uncertain. More protests are expected in the coming days and weeks, and the presence of the National Guard is likely to continue. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton are on “high alert” and could be deployed if violence continues, raising the stakes even further.

Governor Newsom’s lawsuit against the Trump administration could set a new legal precedent regarding federal authority to deploy troops without state consent. Meanwhile, ICE operations are expected to continue daily for at least the next month, with the possibility of more mass arrests and community disruption.

Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that the ongoing conflict between federal and state authorities, combined with aggressive immigration enforcement, will have long-lasting effects on Los Angeles. Immigrant communities, business owners, and residents will need to stay informed and prepared as the situation develops.

Final Takeaways

• Los Angeles is experiencing major unrest after ICE raids and the deployment of the National Guard.
• Immigrant communities face increased risks of detention and deportation, while businesses and residents deal with property damage and disruption.
• Legal and political battles between federal and state officials could shape future responses to similar crises.
• Stay informed and prepared: Follow official updates, know your rights, and seek help if needed.

For more information on your rights and the latest updates, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services official website.

The coming weeks will be critical for Los Angeles as the city, its residents, and its leaders respond to these unprecedented challenges.

Learn Today

ICE → U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency enforcing immigration laws and conducting raids.
National Guard → Military reserve force deployed by federal or state governments for emergencies or unrest.
Raids → Targeted law enforcement operations to arrest and detain suspected undocumented immigrants.
Federalization → Activation of National Guard troops under federal control, bypassing state governor’s consent.
First Amendment → U.S. constitutional right protecting freedom of speech, assembly, and protest.

This Article in a Nutshell

LA erupted in intense protests after ICE raids targeted immigrants starting June 6, prompting federal National Guard deployment and escalating violence. Businesses suffered looting and vandalism while local authorities kept order but avoided immigration enforcement. The conflict exposes deep federal-state tension and challenges immigrant communities amid ongoing ICE operations.
— By VisaVerge.com