U.S. troops deployed to Los Angeles to manage ongoing protests over immigration raids are authorized to temporarily detain individuals until law enforcement intervenes, according to a military official. The announcement comes as 700 Marines and 4,000 National Guard troops prepare to support federal operations, raising questions about the military's domestic role.
Legal and Operational Boundaries Tested
Major General Scott Sherman clarified that while troops lack arrest authority, they may detain individuals to protect federal personnel or property. Marines will not carry live ammunition, per operational guidelines. The deployment follows President Trump's order despite objections from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has sued to block the move, citing potential violations of an 1878 law limiting military involvement in civilian law enforcement.
Protests Spread Nationally
Demonstrations initially sparked by immigration raids in Los Angeles have expanded to cities nationwide, with hundreds of protests planned this weekend. While largely peaceful, isolated incidents of looting prompted a downtown curfew. Los Angeles police reported 225 arrests on Tuesday, mostly for failing to disperse.
Implications for Federal-State Relations
California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned that troops accompanying ICE agents during raids could blur legal boundaries. Meanwhile, the Pentagon maintains its focus remains on safeguarding federal assets. The debate underscores tensions between federal authority and state autonomy, with Asian diaspora communities and global observers closely monitoring impacts on civil liberties and cross-Pacific diplomatic dynamics.
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Troops in LA can detain individuals, official says, as protests spread
cgtn.com