The U.S. Department of Justice is actively pursuing federal charges against individuals who are implicated in the organization and support of violent unrest in Los Angeles. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli has announced charges against Alejandro Theodoro Orellana, who was recorded on video distributing face shields to rioters on June 9.
Orellana has been arrested and is facing charges of Conspiracy to Commit Civil Disorders. Furthermore, Adam Palermo, 39, is confronted with multiple state and federal charges, which include assault with a deadly weapon, arson, and vandalism, after he allegedly threw a rock at a California Highway Patrol vehicle and ignited another during the riots. Palermo has also reportedly bragged on social media about his participation in the violence.
The federal crackdown is occurring amidst political backlash regarding the expenses associated with deploying troops to control the riots. California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have criticized the $134 million federal expenditure, labeling it a misuse of taxpayer funds. In reaction, conservative figures have highlighted the considerably higher costs that California incurs each year for services provided to illegal immigrants, contending that those funds could be more effectively utilized for citizens and disaster recovery.
Fox News Digital has reported that the state allocates tens of billions annually for undocumented immigrants, which has ignited a broader discussion about state spending priorities. The DOJ is continuing its efforts to identify and prosecute individuals responsible for instigating and participating in civil unrest.
