IRS vows to 'trace money' and 'disrupt' any financial networks funding Los Angeles anti-ICE riots

Federal authorities in Los Angeles are seeking information regarding any individuals and/or organizations that may be funding the ongoing anti-ICE riots in the City of Angels. Tyler Hatcher, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Division for Los Angeles, said on Tuesday that the agency is actively tracing money and vowed to disrupt any financial networks supporting the criminal rioting, which has desecrated several blocks of Los Angeles since June 6.

Hatcher made the announcement during a joint press conference with Bill Essayli, US Attorney for the Central District of California, and Akil Davis, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Los Angeles field office.

"We are currently tracing money to determine who is providing funding for these riots. Funding crime doesn't just affect the criminals; it also disrupts entire communities," said Hatcher. "Each dollar funneled into illegal operations fuels violence, undermines law and order, and perpetuates fear. Make no mistake, we will identify and disrupt financial networks supporting these criminal activities."

Civil unrest has plagued Los Angeles since anti-ICE riots kicked off earlier this month, resulting in President Trump federalizing the state's National Guard and ordering the deployment of US Marines to protect federal police and buildings and assist in re-establishing law and order.

US Attorney Essayli vowed to prosecute anyone who may be funding the riots, saying harsh penalties such as imprisonment are in order. "The right to assemble and protest peacefully is protected by law. Unfortunately, we've seen individuals whose intentions are to cause damage and to assault law enforcement," he said. "These violent agitators put peaceful demonstrators at risk."

Despite the unrest and threats of violence, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons and Border Czar Tom Homan stated unequivocally that ICE would not be deterred from carrying out immigration enforcement operations, and that large-scale raids would continue across the country, including in sanctuary cities.

Akil Davis, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Los Angeles, asked the community to submit tips on any individuals and/or organizations "that may be providing financial support to commit acts of violence or destruction of property."

Members of the public can submit tips to the FBI by either calling 1-800-TIPS-FBI or submitting online at TIPS.FBI.GOV.