LAPD Chief Urges Students to Stay in School, Avoid Dangerous Protests

Chief Jim McDonnell warns of legal consequences and potential for harm at anti-ICE demonstrations

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell has issued a strong message to city students, urging them to stay in school and avoid participating in dangerous anti-ICE protests. The chief's warning comes after weeks of demonstrations in downtown LA that have resulted in clashes between protesters and police, as well as attacks on federal agents. McDonnell emphasized that school attendance is mandatory and there could be legal consequences for students who cut class to attend the protests.

Why it matters

The LAPD is concerned about the safety of students who are being encouraged by activist groups to skip school and participate in anti-ICE protests. There have been incidents of vandalism, flag burning, and violence at these demonstrations, raising worries that young people could inadvertently get caught up in illegal activity. The police chief is trying to steer students away from these potentially dangerous situations.

The details

In the past three weeks, there have been a series of raucous anti-ICE protests in downtown LA where students have been spotted burning flags, vandalizing buildings, and throwing objects at police. Two federal agents were involved in a violent clash at one such protest last week, and authorities are still searching for the rioters believed responsible. Another teen was caught on video swinging a pole at police. The LAPD has now issued a public warning that school attendance is mandatory and there could be legal consequences for parents and students who cut class to attend the demonstrations. The department also warned that any adults who transport or assist minors in participating in illegal activity could face charges for contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

  • Over the past three weeks, there have been anti-ICE protests in downtown LA on three consecutive Fridays.
  • On Monday, the LAPD issued a public warning about the legal consequences of skipping school to attend protests.

The players

Jim McDonnell

The chief of the Los Angeles Police Department who urged students to stay in school and avoid dangerous protests.

Alberto Carvalho

The superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, who is facing controversy for his anti-ICE comments as students across the city exit classrooms to protest immigration crackdowns.

Bill Essayli

The U.S. Attorney who vowed to "criminally prosecute" two teens suspected of attacking ICE agents during last Friday's protest.

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What they’re saying

“We want to support everybody exercising their First Amendment rights, but we want to make sure everybody remains safe.”

— Jim McDonnell, LAPD Chief (Fox 11)

“Don't do something that's going to create problems for you down the road.”

— Jim McDonnell, LAPD Chief (Fox 11)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the two teens suspected of attacking ICE agents to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the delicate balance between supporting students' right to protest and ensuring their safety, as well as the potential legal consequences for minors who engage in illegal activities during demonstrations. The LAPD is urging students to find constructive ways to express their views while avoiding the risks associated with skipping school and participating in dangerous protests.