Protests in downtown Los Angeles took an unusual turn Monday night when a group clad in masks handed out riot shields and masks called a “bionic shield,” per reports.
Reporters from FOX 11 captured the distribution of tactical gear by unknown people near federal buildings guarded by the National Guard. No police presence was observed at that time.
FOX 11 anchor Elex Michaelson posted on X what was playing out in real time.
“We just saw people arrive in Downtown L.A. with truckloads of Bionic Face Shields that demonstrators quickly grabbed. It certainly seems like gear you’d wear if you’re preparing for conflict with police. Who is funding this?”
Monday’s distribution was the latest in mounting tensions since President Donald Trump deployed more than 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to handle immigration protests.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Attorney General Rob Bonta viewed the move as a way of justifying federal force. Local officials are blaming Trump for the unrest.
“This isn’t about public safety. It’s about stroking a dangerous President’s ego,” Newsom said.
State officials have filed legal action against the Trump administration because of the National Guard presence.
The people who handed out the riot gear have yet to be arrested as well as those rioting, something Michaelson pointed out in another post on social media.
“This is outrageous. Thugs are currently setting fires & collecting rocks in Downtown L.A. as law enforcement stands by nearby,” he posted. “For the moment, they are letting this all happen.”
“How is it that I’m ticketed if I miss paying my parking meter by 2 minutes but this is allowed?” he added.
