Key Takeaways
• Los Angeles imposed curfew June 10-11 in one-square-mile downtown area amid anti-ICE protest violence.
• 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 U.S. Marines deployed to enforce curfew and protect federal buildings.
• Since June 6, over 117 ICE arrests in LA area triggered protests, leading to hundreds of total arrests.
On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Los Angeles found itself at the center of national attention as Mayor Karen Bass imposed a strict curfew on a one-square-mile area of downtown. The curfew, running from 8 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday, came after four nights of escalating violence linked to anti-ICE protests. The unrest, sparked by recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, has led to hundreds of arrests, widespread property damage, and the deployment of thousands of National Guard troops and U.S. Marines. This fast-moving situation has raised urgent questions for residents, business owners, protesters, and especially immigrant communities in Los Angeles.
Why Was the Curfew Imposed?
The immediate reason for the curfew was a sharp rise in violence during protests against ICE operations. What began as peaceful demonstrations quickly turned chaotic, with Monday night seeing 23 businesses vandalized and reports of arson, including attacks on Waymo self-driving cars. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported 114 arrests on Monday and 197 on Tuesday, with most arrests happening near the Metropolitan Detention Center and on the 101 freeway.
Mayor Bass explained that the curfew was necessary to protect lives and property, urging anyone who does not live or work in the affected area to stay away during curfew hours. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell echoed this, describing a “disturbing escalation in unlawful behavior” that required a strong response.
Where Does the Curfew Apply?
The curfew covers a one-square-mile area of downtown Los Angeles, including the Civic Center, Arts District, Fashion District, Skid Row, and South Park (home to Crypto.com Arena). The boundaries are set by the 10, 110, and 101 freeways. Only people who live or work in this area are allowed to be present during curfew hours. Everyone else must leave or risk arrest.
Key details:
– Curfew area: Civic Center, Arts District, Fashion District, Skid Row, South Park
– Curfew hours: 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
– Boundaries: 10, 110, and 101 freeways
How Is the Curfew Being Enforced?
A large number of law enforcement and military personnel are now present in downtown Los Angeles. The LAPD, National Guard, U.S. Marines, and federal agents are all working together to enforce the curfew and maintain order. Mayor Bass and Chief McDonnell have warned that anyone caught violating the curfew will be arrested and prosecuted. The LAPD has increased patrols and is actively detaining people who do not comply.
On Monday, 114 people were arrested, and on Tuesday, that number jumped to 197. Of those, 160 arrests happened near the Metropolitan Detention Center, and 67 were made on the 101 freeway. The presence of 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines has made the area feel tense and heavily guarded.
What Sparked the Protests?
The current unrest began after a series of large-scale ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants. In the days leading up to the protests, ICE arrested over 1,200 people nationwide, including more than 117 in the Los Angeles area. On Friday alone, more than 40 people were arrested at a single worksite in the city, and 77 more were detained across greater Los Angeles.
These raids, part of a broader crackdown under President Trump’s administration, have caused fear and anger in immigrant communities. Los Angeles, which declared itself a sanctuary city in November 2024, has been a focal point for both federal enforcement and local resistance.
Federal Response: National Guard and Marines Deployed
President Trump responded to the unrest by sending 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles. He said this was necessary to protect federal buildings and restore order. This move was made over the objections of California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called the federalization of the state’s National Guard “illegal and immoral.” Governor Newsom has announced that California will take legal action against the Trump administration to challenge the deployment.
The federal government’s decision to send troops has added to the tension in the city. Many residents and community leaders worry that the heavy military presence will only make things worse, especially for immigrants who already feel targeted by ICE.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
The curfew and increased security have had a big impact on daily life in downtown Los Angeles. Residents and workers must carry identification and proof of address or employment if they need to be in the area during curfew hours. Businesses have been forced to close early and secure their properties, with many owners worried about further damage or theft.
Practical steps for residents and businesses:
– During curfew hours: Only be in the area if you live or work there. Always carry ID and proof of address or employment.
– For businesses: Lock up before curfew starts. Stay updated through official city channels.
– For everyone: Follow police instructions. Not doing so could lead to arrest.
Effects on Protesters
For protesters, the risks have increased sharply. Anyone found in the curfew zone during restricted hours faces arrest and prosecution. Law enforcement is also using more surveillance and monitoring to track protest activity. If you are detained, it is important to ask for legal representation and to document the circumstances of your arrest.
Community groups like Unión del Barrio and the National Day Laborer Organizing Network have condemned both the ICE raids and the violence, stressing that the unrest is making life even harder for vulnerable people.
Immigrant Communities: Fear and Uncertainty
Immigrant communities in Los Angeles are feeling the pressure from all sides. The aggressive ICE raids, combined with the visible presence of the National Guard and Marines, have created a climate of fear. Many undocumented immigrants are afraid to leave their homes, even for essential needs, worried that they might be detained or deported.
As of Tuesday, more than 55,000 people were being held in ICE detention centers across the country. The recent raids in Los Angeles have added to this number, and the ongoing protests have made it harder for families to get information or legal help.
Legal and Political Battle Over the National Guard
The deployment of the National Guard has sparked a legal and political fight between the federal government and California. President Trump used a federal law, 10 U.S.C. § 12406, to take control of the state’s National Guard. Governor Newsom and other state officials say this is not allowed without the state’s consent and have promised to challenge it in court.
Civil liberties groups warn that using the military to control protests could violate people’s rights to free speech and assembly. They also worry that the curfew and heavy police presence could lead to more violence, not less.
Multiple Perspectives: Law Enforcement, Civil Liberties, and Community Voices
Law enforcement officials argue that the curfew and troop deployment are needed to stop the violence and protect property. They point to the large number of arrests and the damage to businesses as proof that strong action is required.
Civil liberties advocates say that the response is too harsh and risks taking away people’s rights. They warn that the use of military forces and curfews can make tensions worse and hurt innocent people.
Community leaders stress that while violence is never the answer, the root causes of the protests—fear of ICE raids and the treatment of immigrants—must be addressed. They say that the unrest is a sign of deeper problems that need real solutions.
What Should You Do If You Are Affected?
If you live, work, or protest in downtown Los Angeles, here are some important steps to follow:
For residents and workers:
– Only be in the curfew area if you have to.
– Always carry identification and proof of address or employment.
– Listen to police instructions and stay informed through official channels.
For business owners:
– Close and secure your business before curfew starts.
– Check for updates from the City of Los Angeles and the LAPD.
For protesters:
– Stay out of the curfew zone during restricted hours.
– If you are arrested, ask for a lawyer and write down what happened.
For immigrants:
– Know your rights if approached by ICE or law enforcement. The ACLU of Southern California and the National Day Laborer Organizing Network can help with legal advice.
For more information on your rights and the latest updates, visit the City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department.
Background: How Did We Get Here?
Los Angeles has a long history as a city of immigrants. In November 2024, city leaders declared Los Angeles a “sanctuary city,” promising to protect undocumented residents from federal immigration enforcement. This move came as President Trump began his second term and signaled a tougher approach to immigration.
In May 2025, ICE started a new round of large-scale raids, focusing on workplaces and neighborhoods with many undocumented immigrants. The June 6–7 operations in Los Angeles were the largest yet, leading to over 1,200 arrests nationwide and more than 117 in the city. These actions set off the current wave of protests and unrest.
President Trump’s decision to send in the National Guard and Marines is the latest step in a long-running battle between the federal government and states like California over how to handle immigration and public safety.
What Happens Next?
The situation in Los Angeles is still changing quickly. California is moving forward with its legal challenge to the federalization of the National Guard and the deployment of Marines. If violence continues, the curfew could be extended or expanded to cover more areas.
Protests are likely to go on as long as ICE raids and federal troop deployments continue. The standoff between state and federal officials could have a big impact on how protests and immigration enforcement are handled in the future, not just in Los Angeles but across the United States 🇺🇸.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Curfew Area | 1 sq. mile downtown LA; Civic Center, Arts District, Fashion District |
| Curfew Hours | 8 p.m. – 6 a.m. (June 10–11, 2025; may be extended) |
| Arrests (since Saturday) | 26 (Sat), 40 (Sun), 114 (Mon), 197 (Tues) |
| National Guard Deployed | 4,000 troops |
| U.S. Marines Deployed | 700 |
| ICE Arrests (Friday–Monday) | 1,200+ nationwide; 117+ in LA area |
| Key Stakeholders | Mayor Bass, LAPD Chief McDonnell, President Trump, Gov. Newsom |
| Legal Challenge | California suing federal government over National Guard deployment |
Resources for Help and Information
If you need more information or assistance, here are some important contacts:
– City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department: For curfew updates and emergency alerts.
– LAPD Non-Emergency Line: For questions about curfew enforcement.
– Los Angeles Mayor’s Office: For official statements and press releases.
– California Office of the Governor: For updates on legal actions and the state’s response.
– Legal Aid Organizations: The ACLU of Southern California and the National Day Laborer Organizing Network can help if you or someone you know is detained.
Final Thoughts and Practical Guidance
The curfew in Los Angeles is a direct response to days of unrest following aggressive ICE raids and growing tensions between local, state, and federal authorities. The presence of the National Guard and Marines, combined with strict curfew enforcement, has changed daily life for thousands of people in the city. For immigrants, the risks are especially high, with increased chances of detention and deportation.
If you are affected, stay informed, follow official instructions, and know your rights. The situation may continue to change, so check trusted sources like the City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department for the latest updates.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the events in Los Angeles highlight the complex relationship between immigration enforcement, public safety, and civil rights. The outcome of the legal and political battles now underway could shape the future of protest management and immigration policy across the United States 🇺🇸.
Stay safe, stay informed, and reach out for help if you need it.
Learn Today
Curfew → A restricted time period when leaving a designated area is prohibited except for authorized individuals.
ICE → Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the U.S. federal agency enforcing immigration laws and deportations.
National Guard → Military reserve force deployed by states or federal government to support law enforcement during emergencies.
Sanctuary City → A city limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to protect undocumented residents.
Federalization → The process of placing state National Guard troops under federal control, often controversially.
This Article in a Nutshell
Los Angeles enacted a curfew to contain escalating violence from anti-ICE protests after mass raids. Thousands of National Guard troops and Marines enforce order amid arrests, property damage, and legal battles over military deployment in the city’s downtown core.
— By VisaVerge.com
