Federal Investigation into Anti-Deportation Protests
Federal prosecutors in California have revealed that a significant number of individuals arrested during anti-deportation riots are actually U.S. citizens, which has raised some eyebrows.
Attorney Bill Essayli pointed out that more than 50 suspects emerged from violent protests against federal immigration enforcement in California. He shared these insights with the Daily Caller News Foundation. Trump’s appointees believe that the surge in mob violence, which has captured national attention since June, reflects a political environment in California that, under Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, seemingly embraces illegal immigration.
“It’s pretty striking to see U.S. citizens putting in such effort to protect illegal immigrants from deportation. Honestly, it feels quite odd,” Essayli said in the interview. “I’ve been surprised—whether dealing with a defendant or a politician—by the lengths to which some go to advocate for non-citizens.”
He further expressed hope that politicians like Newsom and Bass would show similar enthusiasm for American citizens. “I’ve not witnessed anything quite like this,” said the former California attorney. “During my time in Congress, I don’t recall ever seeing such aggressive support aimed at Americans.”
Newsom and Bass have criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), arguing that its operations often jeopardize innocent individuals. The Newsom administration even deployed the National Guard to manage protests, condemning former President Trump for what they viewed as an encouragement of chaos through immigration raids.
Essayli noted his hope that some of the ongoing cases will proceed to trial, emphasizing the need to uphold justice fairly for all involved. “It’s critical that the government receives a just process, just as the defendants do. We’re committed to ensuring that our jury selection reflects an unbiased community,” he explained.
The attorney mentioned that recent political violence—particularly tied to protests—has highlighted societal issues. The Small Business Administration estimated that anti-ICE protests led to around $1 billion in damages in Los Angeles during July.
Essayli also plans to investigate the organization behind these protests, noting that the involvement of union leaders or activist groups is a possible sign of coordinated efforts. During the June protests, participants reportedly distributed protective equipment, ignited fireworks at law enforcement, and planned collective unrest. Federal officials accused individuals of traveling to protests while allegedly obtaining mortar and fireworks, intending to harm law enforcement. In addition, actions during demonstrations supporting cannabis farms in Camarillo included throwing tear gas canisters at federal agents.
The federal investigation into funding sources linked to the unrest remains active, with potential charges ranging from obstruction to conspiracy. Essayli argued that the events of 2020 demonstrated America’s need to decisively reject political violence.
