Why was a curfew implemented in downtown LA after protests and looting?
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Synopsis
Los Angeles is currently grappling with a limited curfew due to unrest sparked by immigration raids. Mayor Karen Bass has cited escalating violence and the need for order amidst federal intervention. With chaos erupting in downtown, how will local authorities manage the situation? Read on to find out more about the implications and responses from state officials.
Key Takeaways
- Curfew in effect from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. in downtown LA.
- Mayor Bass cites escalating violence as the reason for the curfew.
- Residents are exempt from curfew restrictions.
- Protests are linked to recent immigration raids.
- Law enforcement is stretched thin amidst the unrest.
Los Angeles, June 11 (NationPress) A temporary curfew will be enforced starting Tuesday in various districts of downtown Los Angeles, California, following several nights of turmoil ignited by the Trump administration's immigration enforcement actions.
The announcement was made by Mayor Karen Bass, who reported an increase in violence, arson, and looting linked to federal enforcement measures.
The curfew will be in effect from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. and might extend for several days. However, Mayor Bass indicated that residents and those working in the area would not be affected.
She explained that the decision was taken due to escalating tensions and the necessity to avert additional chaos.
Masked thieves targeted multiple establishments, including an Apple Store, where they shattered windows and fled with electronics. They also vandalized the property with graffiti.
Other businesses impacted included Adidas shops, pharmacies, marijuana dispensaries, and jewelry stores. Online videos depict extensive vandalism, with shelves emptied and storefronts damaged.
Law enforcement took action with arrests as the situation worsened. The Los Angeles Police Department faced challenges in managing the unrest.
During a press conference, Mayor Bass recognized the burden on local police but criticized federal intervention, especially the Trump administration's choice to deploy military personnel without state approval.
"People are asking me what the Marines will do when they arrive. That's a valid question, I have no idea," Bass stated.
"The solution is not federal troops. The solution is to cease the raids," she added.
These comments follow President Donald Trump's announcement regarding the deployment of over 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to California, a move that has drawn significant criticism from state officials.
The President cited an "assault on peace and public order" and threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to address the protests.
California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized Trump's actions, stating they represent a violation of state sovereignty.
"There was no issue until Trump intervened. This is a serious infringement on state sovereignty -- inflaming tensions while diverting resources from where they're truly needed," Newsom posted on X.
Furthermore, Newsom reaffirmed that California's local law enforcement can effectively manage the situation without federal assistance.
Nonetheless, Trump went ahead to reference three federal provisions to justify deploying National Guard units without the governor's consent.
California is now gearing up to legally challenge Trump's decision, asserting that the President has overstepped state authority.
The dual control of the National Guard under both state and federal jurisdictions has resulted in a standoff, with California maintaining that Trump's actions are unlawful and provocative.
At the core of this unrest lies the recent immigration crackdown by the Trump administration, which involved high-profile raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Los Angeles.
Tensions escalated on Friday when ICE officers detained over 40 immigrants at a Home Depot parking lot and a clothing manufacturing site.
Mayor Bass condemned these actions, attributing them as the catalyst for the recent violence.
"This situation is not merely about looting or protests. It is about the fear and frustration within our immigrant communities," she stated.
"What is needed is a cessation of these unjust raids, not an escalation from Washington," she concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the unfolding events in Los Angeles with a balanced perspective. The unrest is a reflection of deep-seated tensions regarding immigration policies and federal intervention. Mayor Bass's decision to impose a curfew underscores the urgency of maintaining public safety while addressing the underlying issues affecting immigrant communities.
NationPress
13/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are affected by the curfew in LA?
The curfew affects several areas of downtown Los Angeles, specifically where unrest has been reported.
What are the curfew hours imposed?
The curfew will be in effect from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Are residents exempt from the curfew?
Yes, residents and those working in the area are exempt from the curfew.
What triggered the unrest in Los Angeles?
The unrest was triggered by the Trump administration's immigration raids, leading to heightened tensions in the community.
How is law enforcement responding to the chaos?
Law enforcement has made arrests and is working to manage the situation, although they have faced challenges.
