Marines Detain Civilians in Los Angeles Amid Rising Tensions
Los Angeles is experiencing heightened tensions as Marines have carried out the first known detainment of a civilian in the city. This action occurs against the backdrop of ongoing protests and increasing federal intervention.
First Detainment and Military Response
Armed Marines were photographed temporarily detaining a civilian near the Wilshire Federal Building. The U.S. Military has confirmed the incident.
The New York Times reported that the individual identified himself as an Army veteran who was attempting to access the Veteran’s Affairs office past a restricted area. He stated that he was not concerned by the brief detainment.
Earlier in the week, the commander in charge of military operations in Los Angeles clarified that military personnel are authorized only to temporarily detain individuals, not to make arrests.
Legal and Political Implications
The involvement of Marines in local policing raises questions about the Posse comitatus Act, which generally forbids the military from engaging in domestic law enforcement activities.
A federal judge recently sought to issue a restraining order against President Trump’s decision to federalize 4,000 California National Guard Troops. However, an appeals court has since stayed that injunction.
The judge did not address the Marines’ role, stating that the court would await a hearing to assess whether thes federal forces were involved in activities resembling policing, such as “interrogating, detaining, or searching civilians.”
Trump’s Actions and Local Reactions
President Trump has previously expressed a desire to use military force to address domestic opposition. Recent Immigration and customs Enforcement (ICE) raids across Los Angeles, targeting warehouses and other locations, triggered a surge of local protests.
Trump responded by deploying 2,000 National Guard troops into the city, despite objections from California Gov.Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
The President has as mobilized up to 4,000 California National Guard members, along with approximately 700 Marines, for deployment in Los Angeles.
Sen. Padilla Incident
Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) was forcibly removed from a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press conference and handcuffed by FBI agents after attempting to question DHS secretary Kristi Noem.
Padilla asserted that he was “there peacefully” and seeking answers regarding the management’s immigration policies. He clarified that while he was handcuffed, he was not formally arrested or detained.
Sen. Padilla conveyed his concerns to the reporters and said, “If this is how this administration responds to a senator with a question you can only imagine what they’re doing farmers … and day laborers.”
Upcoming Protests and Military Parade
Millions are anticipated to protest President Trump’s military parade scheduled for his birthday, which coincides with Flag Day and the Army’s 250th anniversary. The planned parade includes tanks, Howitzers, mobile rocket launchers, and military aircraft.
Protest organizers have designated June 14 as a “nationwide day of defiance,” citing concerns over court defiance, deportations, and civil rights infringements.
Trump has warned demonstrators, stating that any protesters will be met with “very big force.”
Key Facts and Comparisons
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Marine Detainment | First known detainment of a civilian by Marines in Los Angeles. |
| Legal concerns | Potential violation of the Posse Comitatus Act. |
| National Guard Deployment | Up to 4,000 members mobilized by President Trump. |
| Sen. Padilla Incident | sen. Padilla Detained and handcuffed by FBI agents after questioning DHS secretary. |
| Upcoming Protest | Millions expected to protest Trump’s military parade. |
Evergreen Insights
The Posse Comitatus Act: A Historical Perspective
The posse Comitatus Act, enacted in 1878, limits the powers of the federal government to use the U.S. Army for law enforcement purposes.
Did You Know? The Act was passed following the Reconstruction Era to prevent the military from suppressing civilian populations in the former Confederate states. There are exceptions, such as in cases of natural disaster or civil unrest when authorized by law.
The Role of the National Guard
The national Guard operates under dual control, reporting to both the state governors and the President.
Pro Tip: When federalized, National Guard units fall under the command of the President and can be deployed across state lines, as seen in the Los Angeles situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are Marines detaining civilians in Los Angeles?
- Marines are detaining civilians in response to protests and civil unrest, under orders to maintain order, however, it raises questions about the Posse comitatus Act.
- What is the Posse Comitatus Act?
- The posse Comitatus Act is a U.S.federal law that limits the use of the U.S. military for domestic law enforcement purposes.
- How many National Guard troops have been deployed to Los Angeles?
- President Trump has mobilized as many as 4,000 members of the California National Guard, along with 700 Marines.
- What happened to Senator Alex Padilla?
- Senator Alex Padilla was removed from a DHS press conference and handcuffed by FBI agents after attempting to ask a question.
- Why are people protesting in Los Angeles?
- People are protesting in response to ICE raids, the deployment of military forces, and other government actions.
- When is the planned military parade?
- President Trump’s military parade is scheduled for June 14, coinciding with his birthday, Flag Day, and the Army’s 250th anniversary.
- What are the concerns about federal intervention in Los Angeles?
- Concerns include potential overreach of federal power, violation of states’ rights, and the militarization of domestic law enforcement.
what are your thoughts on the military’s role in maintaining order during civil unrest? How do you think this situation will evolve? Share your opinions below.
