DTLA Under Curfew Is the National Guard's ICE Standoff the New Normal?

Mayor Bass Announces Curfew for DTLA Amid Ongoing Anti-ICE Protests; National Guard Deployed

Los Angeles has become a focal point in the ongoing national debate surrounding immigration enforcement. Recent developments indicate a significant shift in the role of the National Guard and heightened tensions in the downtown area.

Adding to the complexity, Mayor Karen Bass announced a curfew for Downtown Los Angeles amidst continuing protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. The announcement comes as the presence of the National Guard has been increased in the area, marking a significant turning point in how federal and local authorities are managing the situation.

The core of the issue revolves around the expanded duties assigned to the National Guard. Previously, their role was primarily limited to safeguarding federal property. However, as of Tuesday, they are now actively protecting ICE agents during arrest operations. Photos released by ICE clearly depict National Guard troops providing a security perimeter for officers carrying out arrests.

ICE issued a statement clarifying that the troops are "providing perimeter and personnel protection for our facilities and officers who are out on daily enforcement operations." This shift brings the National Guard closer to direct involvement in law enforcement activities, potentially including deportations – a move consistent with promises made by the Trump administration.

Key takeaways from this developing story:

• Expanded Role: National Guard troops are no longer solely focused on protecting federal property.
• Direct Support: They are now providing direct security for ICE agents during enforcement actions.
• DTLA Curfew: Mayor Bass has implemented a curfew in Downtown Los Angeles due to ongoing protests.
• Federal Authorization: U.S. officials confirm the Guard's authorization to secure areas where enforcement actions occur.
• Non-Participation Claim: Officials maintain that the Guard is not directly participating in enforcement actions, only providing security.

According to anonymous U.S. officials, the Guard members are authorized to provide protection, secure streets, and establish perimeters around areas where ICE enforcement actions are underway. These officials emphasized that the Guard members are not participating directly in enforcement actions but are solely providing security for missions within the Los Angeles area.

The deployment of the National Guard in this capacity raises several critical questions:

1. To what extent will the National Guard's presence impact the perception of immigration enforcement in the community?
2. How will this change affect the relationship between law enforcement and the public, particularly within immigrant communities?
3. What are the long-term implications of utilizing the National Guard in this manner for border security and immigration policy?

The situation in Los Angeles is a microcosm of the larger national debate on immigration. The increased involvement of the National Guard and the subsequent curfew in DTLA underscores the escalating tensions and the complex challenges faced by both federal and local authorities in navigating these sensitive issues. As this situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the impact on communities and the evolving role of the National Guard in domestic law enforcement.

This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as they become available.

Source: https://abc7.com/live-updates/tensions-flare-downtown-la-anti-ice-protesters-clash-agents-live-updates/16692645/entry/16718238/