In an unprecedented move, U.S. Marines deployed in Los Angeles made their first detention of a civilian amid mounting protests. Around 200 Marines stationed at the Wilshire Federal Building detained 27-year-old Marcos Leao, a U.S. Army veteran and immigrant, after he inadvertently crossed a restricted area marked by yellow tape.
Marcos said he was instructed to get on the ground after entering a no-go zone. This rare use of military force on American soil comes as nearly 1,800 protests are scheduled nationwide for Saturday, with about 15 expected in Los Angeles alone.
The deployment follows a series of controversial immigration raids and the upcoming military parade in Washington celebrating the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary — an event that coincides with President Donald Trump's 79th birthday. City leaders are voicing concerns; as Mayor Karen Bass noted, "We are here today because the raids have caused fear and panic. Can the federal government come in and seize power from a state and from a local jurisdiction?"
Much like a scene from a high-stakes thriller, today’s events have sparked fierce debates across the nation. Some support these tough measures, while others fear local autonomy is under threat. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story. ✌️
Reference(s):
U.S. Marines make first detention in LA as more protests expected
cgtn.com
