“[There is a] big difference between the peaceful protesters and the individuals who are coming out with weapons to attack our folks.”
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna revealed Friday that nearly a dozen deputies have been injured during ongoing anti-ICE riots across the city, as law enforcement braces for a wave of nationwide demonstrations scheduled for Saturday.
According to Luna, ten deputies have been injured after protesters hurled rocks, launched Molotov cocktails, and used “high-grade pyrotechnics” (fireworks) during clashes with law enforcement.
"We have been encountering some interesting weapons out there," Luna said at a press conference. "[There is a] big difference between the peaceful protesters and the individuals who are coming out with weapons to attack our folks."
Luna also addressed the nationwide protests against the Trump administration scheduled for Saturday, noting that it is a “good cause” but urging protesters to stay peaceful.
"It's a good cause, but we do not want violent agitators out there destroying property or committing acts of violence specifically against our police officers, deputy sheriffs and CHP [California Highway Patrol] officers," Luna said. "I just want to remind everybody that our deputies have and continue to face a dangerous situation out there."
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell echoed those concerns, stating the department is “fully prepared” for the weekend’s protests.
"We're closely monitoring developments and deploying our personnel and resources strategically to protect public safety while safeguarding every individual's right to protest peacefully," McDonnell said.
"If you come to our city with the intent to commit crimes, damage property or harm others, including our officers, you will be arrested," he added. "We will not allow violence, vandalism or threats to public safety to undermine the rights of those who are demonstrating lawfully. We're asking everyone who plans to participate in Saturday's event to do so peacefully and respectfully."
McDonnell confirmed that hundreds of people have already been arrested since the protests began, according to Fox News. He also noted that a citywide curfew remains in effect and has “played a key role in helping to restore order, particularly by curbing the criminal activity that was largely occurring during the evening hours."
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