LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell says the department is “well prepared” to handle the ice protest. There is a “great cooperation” with the National Guard.
Trump orders troops in Los Angeles as an agent, protesters clash with immigrants
President Trump has ordered 2,000 National Guard forces in Los Angeles to fight violent protesters against immigration enforcement.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell told USA Today that if public unrest arises on the third day of the city’s protest, his department is “well prepared.”
“We certainly have a heavier development than usual,” McDonnell said on June 8th, refusing to give a certain number.
The chief said officers will be deployed outside federal court buildings, the Metropolitan Detention Center, city hall and the park where protests and demonstrations against the deportation attack will be held.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen,” McDonnell said. “We are being deployed heavily to meet any challenges we may face.”
Comments from the chief came as about 300 National Guard members arrived in Los Angeles after President Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 officers. This is a move that California Gov. Gavin Newsom and La Mayor Karen Bass have sharply criticised them for being inflammatory and unnecessary. Base added that the presence of the National Guard could cause “confusing escalation.”
McDonnell said the LAPD is still thinking about what role the National Guard will play during the protests.
“We still need to make up our minds,” McDonnell said. “Some of them just got on the ground and we’re trying to understand how we can make this work for everyone. Cities, counties, and then after. Our overall focus is on public safety.”
McDonnell said LAPD has been working very closely with the National Guard for several months due to the fatal Palisade fire, adding that “we have a great working relationship.”
“We’re both here for the same reason. It’s ultimately about keeping everyone safe,” McDonnell said.
McDonnell said that taking the initiative in dealing with the eerieness of protests and demonstrations depends on when and where anxiety arises. The chief said there are 44 other law enforcement agencies in LA County that support each other under a mutual aid agreement.
“It depends on where they are and what the situation is,” McDonnell said. “We’re in charge of the City of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office. We’re always working together.”
McDonnell said the LAPD will not participate in immigration enforcement measures, as prohibited by law under the California Values Act, often referred to as “sanctuary law.” However, the department has a presence to quell public unrest as protesters exercise their First Amendment rights, the chief said.
“We will adapt to the situation they are being presented to us,” McDonnell said. “We put ourselves on the line every day and are proud of our people and the work they do on behalf of our community.”
