Live Updates: Marines Deployed to LA Amid Escalating Immigration Protests

As immigration protests in Los Angeles stretch into a fourth day, tensions continue to rise—with the Pentagon now sending in 700 Marines to help protect federal property and personnel. The decision, made in response to mounting unrest, has sparked controversy among local leaders and raised serious questions about communication, legality, and coordination.

Why the Marines Are in LA

According to U.S. Northern Command, the Marines are being deployed to support local law enforcement and the National Guard by protecting federal buildings and immigration officers. However, under the Posse Comitatus Act, the troops are prohibited from directly performing law enforcement duties such as making arrests or crowd control.

The Pentagon is drafting clear rules for their conduct, including prohibitions on warning shots and specific instructions on de-escalation and self-defense. Each Marine will reportedly receive a card outlining what they can and cannot do.

LAPD Chief Voices Concerns Over Lack of Coordination

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell expressed frustration over being kept out of the loop. In a public statement, McDonnell said the LAPD received no formal notification about the Marines’ arrival and warned that their deployment, without close coordination, could lead to confusion and operational issues.

“We are urging open and continuous lines of communication between all agencies to prevent confusion, avoid escalation, and ensure a coordinated, lawful, and orderly response,” he said.

Protests Turn Chaotic: Dozens Arrested, Officers Injured

The protests have grown increasingly volatile. Over the weekend, LAPD arrested 29 people Saturday night for failure to disperse, and another 21 on Sunday for more serious offenses—including attempted murder involving a Molotov cocktail, assaulting officers, and looting.

The police used more than 600 rubber bullets, tear gas, and other less-lethal munitions during the demonstrations. Five officers reportedly sustained minor injuries.

State Pushback: California Files Lawsuit, Newsom Responds to Trump Threats

California is pushing back hard. Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the state is suing the Trump administration over its use of federal troops, accusing it of trampling on state sovereignty.

Meanwhile, a tense war of words erupted between Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom. Trump, backing comments made by his border enforcement czar Tom Homan, said officials obstructing immigration enforcement should be arrested. Newsom fired back defiantly: “Come after me, arrest me. Let’s just get it over with, tough guy.”

Pentagon Caught Off Guard by Hegseth’s Tweet

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s decision to deploy the Marines followed private conversations with Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs. But when Hegseth announced the move on his personal social media account, it surprised many inside the Pentagon. Officials say internal discussions are still ongoing about the full implications of the deployment.

Labor Leader David Huerta Released from Federal Custody

Among those arrested in recent days was labor leader David Huerta. After being released from federal detention, Huerta told reporters that his arrest wasn’t planned.

“This fight is ours, it’s our community’s, but it belongs to everyone,” he said outside the courthouse, urging peaceful protest. “Violence is not the answer.”

Sen. Schiff: Federal Troop Deployment Is Fueling the Fire

California Senator Adam Schiff, who attended Huerta’s bond hearing, criticized the Trump administration’s decision to bring in federal troops. He described the move as “utterly unnecessary and unwarranted” and said it was escalating tensions rather than helping resolve the crisis.

“We need to just focus on getting things calmed down here in Los Angeles so people can go about their business,” Schiff said. He called for peaceful protest and urged the administration to prioritize deportation efforts against violent offenders.

Protests Continue—With Moments of Unity and Celebration

Despite the turmoil, parts of downtown LA saw more upbeat scenes. In the El Pueblo district near the federal detention center, demonstrators danced to live music, waved Mexican flags, and chanted, “Whose streets? Our streets.”

The area, known for its vibrant celebration of Mexican culture, offered a moment of unity and peaceful expression amid an otherwise tense situation.

Stay tuned for developing story