LA ‘No Kings’ protest turns into riot, at least one arrested as violent crowd refuses to disperse

Clashes broke out in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday as “No Kings” protesters refused to disperse after repeated orders from law enforcement, leading to at least one arrest.

The demonstration was part of nationwide “No Kings” protests aimed at opposing President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies. While the event began peacefully, tensions escalated when some protesters stayed in the streets after police declared an unlawful assembly.

Los Angeles police formed a skirmish line and issued dispersal orders, warning protesters they would be arrested if they did not leave. According to ABC 7, at least one person was taken into custody as officers in riot gear on horseback moved in near the federal building downtown to push the crowd back.

Police said nearly 100 agitators marched toward Aliso and Alameda streets, with some using lasers and flashlights against officers and even targeting an LAPD pilot.

"After thousands of people gathered to express their constitutional 1st Amendment rights peacefully earlier in the day, nearly a hundred agitators marched over to Aliso and Alameda," LAPD said. "During the demonstration at that specific location, lasers and industrial size flashing lights (constant and strobe) were used against officers and the pilot of an LAPD Airship."

NBC 4 Los Angeles reported that one protester dressed as a handmaid,  a reference to The Handmaid’s Tale which is often used by pro-abortion activists, was detained and zip-tied after being pulled aside by officers. The woman was later released.

Earlier in the day, large crowds gathered downtown carrying signs and chanting against President Trump. Demonstrators displayed a 20-foot balloon depicting Trump in a diaper and a massive banner reading “No Kings for U.S.” Many handmade signs accused the Trump administration of being “fascists” and “Nazis.”