Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced the deployment of National Guard troops across the state amid rising tensions related to protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This decision comes in response to violent demonstrations that erupted in various cities, including Austin, where clashes between protesters and police resulted in multiple injuries.
The protests began on June 7 in Los Angeles, sparked by recent ICE raids. Demonstrators expressed their anger, leading to riots that involved vandalism, car fires, and confrontations with law enforcement. This unrest quickly spread to other major cities, including Austin, where a protest on June 8 turned violent.
In Austin, the police department reported that eight individuals were arrested after demonstrators began defacing property and throwing objects at officers. The protests began at the Texas Capitol and moved through downtown, culminating at the J.J. Pickle Federal Building. The Austin Police Department (APD) stated that while they support the right to peaceful protest, they will not tolerate violence or unlawful actions that endanger the community or officers.
During the Austin protests, several officers were injured, with four requiring hospitalization. The injuries were primarily from rocks thrown by protesters. In response to escalating violence, law enforcement deployed tear gas and other crowd control measures to disperse the crowd.
Governor Abbott’s office emphasized that the state is prepared to maintain order. Abbott’s press secretary stated that Texas National Guard soldiers are on standby in areas where protests are expected. The governor’s approach reflects a firm stance against violence, asserting that those engaging in unlawful activities will face consequences.
As tensions continue, authorities are bracing for further demonstrations, and the situation remains fluid. The deployment of the National Guard is seen as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety and uphold law and order across Texas.