National Guard members who remained in Los Angeles following Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protests have made another appearance during an alleged anti-ICE protest outside the federal Metropolitan Detention Center on Wednesday, July 23.
In early June, approximately 4,000 National Guard members were deployed to Los Angeles by the Trump administration in response to protests related to ICE activity across the city. Last week, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that 2,000 troops would be withdrawn.
According to published reports, protesters “clashed” with some of the remaining National Guard members and Los Angeles police on Wednesday night.
Around 8:40 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department’s Central Division issued a traffic advisory through social media, letting drivers know to avoid Alameda Street between Aliso and Temple streets.
“Use caution in the area due to demonstrators possibly being on the roadway. NB lanes,” the post stated.
Reports further stated that a “help call” was made by officers who were present after an individual allegedly attacked a federal officer. The officer did not appear to suffer serious injuries, as no ambulance was dispatched.
In a separate incident that same night, a woman suspected of assault with a deadly weapon was taken into custody. It’s unclear if she was the same individual involved in the reported assault on the federal officer.
National Guard members were also seen in tactical gear, holding shields and standing in a horizontal formation as they confronted the demonstrators. Approximately 75 people were present at the “protest,” according to reports. Authorities did not declare an unlawful assembly, nor were there tear gas or flash bangs deployed.
Last week, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said the withdrawal of half of the National Guard members initially sent was “another sign of progress.” She added, “It’s an inappropriate use of our men and women who choose to serve.”