A 29-year-old activist from Boyle Heights has been indicted by a federal grand jury for his role in protests against the Trump administration’s immigration raids. Alejandro Orellana, a member of the community organization Centro CSO, faces serious charges including conspiracy and aiding civil disorder.
The indictment states that on June 9, Orellana and two others drove around downtown Los Angeles, handing out protective face shields and other supplies to protesters near the federal building. Prosecutors claim this was an effort to help demonstrators withstand less-lethal munitions used by police after declaring the assembly unlawful.
During a brief court appearance, Orellana pleaded not guilty. His supporters filled the courtroom, showing solidarity as a trial date was set for late August. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, appointed by Trump, has vowed to aggressively pursue anyone who disrupts Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations or harms law enforcement during protests.
Federal prosecutors have brought at least 23 cases related to protests in recent weeks, with some cases dismissed or refiled as misdemeanors. Essayli defended the charges against Orellana, suggesting that he provided supplies specifically to violent protesters, not peaceful ones. He stated, “He wasn’t handing masks out at the beach,” implying that the context of the protest was different.
Carlos Montes, a fellow Centro CSO member, argues that the charges are ridiculous and politically motivated. He believes the prosecution is targeting their organization for its pro-immigrant stance. Montes pointed out that Orellana was merely distributing personal protective equipment, which included water and snacks, to those in need.
Orellana, who has no prior criminal record and is a former U.S. Marine, faces a challenging legal situation. Montes has also noted that the FBI recently seized a cellphone from another Centro CSO member, suggesting an ongoing investigation into their activities.
The Los Angeles Police Department has faced criticism for its handling of protests, with reports of officers using rubber rounds and other crowd control measures without warning, resulting in serious injuries to demonstrators and journalists alike. Montes highlighted the need for protective gear, given the risks involved in such protests.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the community continues to rally around Orellana, calling for the charges against him to be dropped. The case has sparked discussions about the rights of protesters and the government’s response to dissent in the current political climate.