Los Angeles County’s top prosecutor has charged eight individuals connected to violent incidents during protests against immigration sweeps. These protests, which have drawn significant attention, saw demonstrators clashing with police, vandalizing property, and looting stores.
During a news conference, District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized the importance of protecting the right to peaceful assembly. He made it clear, however, that any acts of violence or theft would not be tolerated and would be met with serious legal consequences. “If people want to hurl insults, we will protect that,” Hochman stated. “If people want to engage in crimes, we will prosecute that.”
Hochman also pushed back against the narrative that Los Angeles is in chaos, asserting that the vast majority of the county’s population—over 11 million—has not participated in the protests. He noted that while thousands have protested legitimately, the portrayal of constant unrest is misleading.
Among those charged are Juan Rodriguez, who allegedly threw fireworks at police officers, and Randy Paul Ruiz and Georgina Ravallero, who are accused of deliberately driving motorcycles into a line of officers during a protest near an immigration detention center. If convicted, both Ruiz and Ravallero could face more than six years in prison.
Additionally, charges have been filed against individuals involved in a break-in at a Nike store and for vandalism at the Hall of Justice in downtown Los Angeles. The district attorney’s office is continuing to investigate and review video footage, suggesting that more arrests may follow.
Sheriff Robert Luna warned those who participated in the protests but have not yet been arrested that they might soon face legal action. “If you didn’t get caught in the last couple of nights, there’s a lot of evidence,” he cautioned.
Hochman, along with LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, reiterated their commitment to protecting First Amendment rights while drawing a clear line against violent behavior. They distinguished between peaceful demonstrators and those who engage in destructive actions. Hochman has made it a point to take a tougher stance on protest-related offenses, focusing on those who disrupt public order.
Historically, Los Angeles prosecutors have been careful to differentiate between lawful protest activities and criminal acts. In previous instances of unrest, many charges were dropped, reflecting a more lenient approach towards peaceful demonstrators. However, the current administration is signaling a shift towards stricter enforcement against those who cross the line into violence.