An illegal immigrant is now charged with attempted murder after throwing a Molotov cocktail at federal officers during anti-ICE protests that have erupted into organized violence across major U.S. cities.
Key Takeaways
- Federal authorities are considering domestic terrorism charges for violent anti-ICE protesters as organized anarchist groups hijack peaceful demonstrations
- President Trump has deployed 700 U.S. Marines to assist local law enforcement in Los Angeles, where 575 people have been arrested since protests began
- Several individuals face serious federal charges, including an illegal immigrant charged with attempted murder for throwing a Molotov cocktail at officers
- The IRS is investigating funding sources behind the protests as evidence mounts of coordinated efforts to incite violence
- Law enforcement officials warn that sophisticated anarchist groups are using legitimate protests as cover for criminal activities
Organized Violence Erupts Nationwide
Over 2,000 “No Kings Day” protests were held across the United States with more than 5 million participants, initially aimed at countering the Trump administration’s military parade. However, what began as demonstrations against ICE raids in downtown Los Angeles quickly devolved into violent confrontations that have spread to multiple cities. Tensions escalated dramatically when police reported protesters throwing concrete and fireworks at officers outside a federal building in Los Angeles, forcing authorities to issue dispersal orders and make hundreds of arrests.
The violence has prompted a strong federal response, with President Trump deploying 700 U.S. Marines to assist in restoring peace in Los Angeles. This decisive action has received pushback from Democrat lawmakers but demonstrates the administration’s commitment to maintaining law and order in the face of increasingly violent protests. The LAPD has now arrested 575 people since the protests began, with many facing serious federal charges for their roles in the riots.
Federal Charges and Terrorism Considerations
Federal and state authorities have announced charges against multiple individuals accused of inciting violence during the anti-ICE riots. William Rubio faces felony charges for assaulting a police officer and using a destructive device during the riots. Alejandro Orellana is charged with conspiracy to commit civil disorder for allegedly distributing face shields to violent protesters. Adam Charles Palermo could face up to 20 years in prison for attempted arson of a vehicle. Perhaps most alarming is the case of Emiliano Garduno-Galvez, an illegal immigrant charged with attempted murder for throwing a Molotov cocktail at federal officers.
“These face shields are designed to protect from chemical splashes and flying debris, which helps protect violent agitators from less than lethal weapons deployed by law enforcement,” said Bill Essayli.
The Department of Justice is now considering all options for charging individuals involved in violent protests, including potential domestic terrorism charges. While the United States does not have a specific domestic terrorism statute, federal law defines such acts as those intended to intimidate the public or influence government policy through force, providing a foundation for serious federal charges.
Organized Anarchists Exposed
Law enforcement analysts have identified a core group of organized anarchists responsible for escalating the riots, using sophisticated tactics to provoke and spread unrest. These individuals and groups appear to be exploiting legitimate concerns about immigration policy to advance a broader anarchist agenda through violence and destruction. The FBI has launched investigations into these organized efforts to cause chaos, particularly in Los Angeles where the violence has been most severe.
“Federal authorities may describe violent actions during protests as ‘domestic terrorism’ if there is evidence the individuals intended to intimidate the public or influence government decisions through force,” said Jason Pack, retired FBI agent.
The IRS has joined the investigation, looking into the funding of protests by various organizations and nonprofits. This financial probe suggests authorities believe the violence is not merely spontaneous but potentially backed by organized groups with financial resources. Nathan Hochman, a former federal prosecutor, explained the nature of these criminal elements: “This group wanted to commit crimes. They looked at the protest as a cover, an opportunity to go ahead and ply their illegal trade and commit a whole variety of crimes that, in many ways, has done a huge disservice to the legitimate protesters out there.”
Trump Administration’s Response
The Trump administration has taken a firm stance against the violence, making it clear that attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated. The deployment of Marines represents an escalation in the federal response, demonstrating the administration’s determination to restore order. Senator Tom Cotton is leading a legislative push for increased penalties in such cases, which would provide law enforcement with additional tools to combat organized violence disguised as protest.
“President Trump will always support and defend the brave law enforcement officers who are being attacked by the violent left-wing rioters. Those who target law enforcement officials will be held accountable to the full extent of the law,” said Abigail Jackson, spokesperson for the administration.
As federal authorities continue to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the violence, the distinction between legitimate protest and criminal behavior has become increasingly clear. The Trump administration’s decisive response sends a message that while peaceful protest is protected, violent attacks on law enforcement and destruction of property will face the full force of federal law enforcement.
