A local activist has been indicted by a federal grand jury for his actions during a protest against immigration raids in Los Angeles. Alejandro Orellana, 29, is part of a community organization called Centro CSO based in Boyle Heights. He faces serious charges, including conspiracy and aiding civil disorder.
The indictment claims that Orellana, along with at least two others, drove around downtown Los Angeles on June 9, handing out protective face shields and other supplies to protesters near the federal building on Los Angeles Street. Prosecutors argue that these actions were intended to help protesters resist less-lethal munitions used by police after declaring the gathering an unlawful assembly.
During a court appearance, Orellana pleaded not guilty. His supporters filled the courtroom, showing solidarity with him. A trial date has been set for late August. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, who was appointed by President Trump, has vowed to aggressively pursue anyone who disrupts U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations or harms law enforcement during protests.
Federal prosecutors have opened at least 23 cases related to the demonstrations, with some charges being dismissed or downgraded to misdemeanors. Essayli has specifically accused Orellana of distributing supplies to violent protesters, stating that those who remained after the assembly was declared unlawful were “rioters” and did not need protective equipment if they were peaceful.
Orellana, who works for UPS and has a military background as a former U.S. Marine, has no prior criminal record. Fellow Centro CSO member Carlos Montes believes the charges are politically motivated, targeting their pro-immigrant activism. Montes criticized the claims against Orellana, arguing that handing out protective gear, which included water and hand sanitizer, is not a crime.
Montes also pointed out that peaceful protesters often face serious injuries from police actions, highlighting the need for protective equipment. He called for the charges against Orellana to be dropped, describing them as insignificant and ridiculous.
The situation reflects ongoing tensions between activists and law enforcement in Los Angeles, especially surrounding issues of immigration and police conduct during protests.