Dispersal Order Issued for Protesters in Downtown LA

Police declare unlawful assembly after clashes with demonstrators near federal detention center

Jan. 31, 2026 at 11:55pm

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A dispersal order has been issued and an unlawful assembly declared in downtown Los Angeles as a small group of protesters remains in the area. The protests began peacefully on Friday as part of a national day of action against federal immigration operations, but turned chaotic after nightfall as demonstrators clashed with police near a federal detention center. Eight people were arrested during the unrest, including one for assault with a deadly weapon on an officer.

Why it matters

The protests highlight ongoing tensions around federal immigration enforcement and the use of force by police against demonstrators. While the majority of the protest was peaceful, the clashes raise concerns about public safety and the ability of people to exercise their right to free assembly.

The details

Video footage shows protesters throwing trash and debris at federal agents guarding the loading dock of the federal detention center. The agents responded by firing pepper balls and irritant sprays. Police in tactical gear then formed a line and pushed the protesters away from the federal building, which holds ICE detainees. In total, eight people were arrested, including one for assault with a deadly weapon on an officer, one for a curfew violation, and six for failure to disperse.

  • The protests began on Friday afternoon as part of a national day of action.
  • The clashes with police occurred after nightfall on Friday.

The players

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who urged people to protest peacefully and not vandalize property.

Los Angeles Police Department

The law enforcement agency that declared the assembly unlawful and made arrests.

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What they’re saying

“That just hurts the city. That does not impact the administration in any kind of way that is going to bring about any type of change.”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles (abc7.com)

What’s next

The arrests and use of force by police against the protesters are likely to be investigated further, and the city may face continued demonstrations over federal immigration policies.

The takeaway

The clashes between protesters and police in downtown LA highlight the ongoing tensions around federal immigration enforcement and the challenges of balancing the right to free assembly with public safety concerns.