Dozens Arrested After 'No Kings' Protest Turns Violent in Los Angeles

Police clash with demonstrators outside federal building, leading to dozens of arrests

Mar. 29, 2026 at 11:20pm

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Los Angeles police arrested 75 people, including 66 adults and 8 juveniles, after a 'No Kings' protest outside the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building turned into a riot on March 28. Authorities said demonstrators were throwing rocks, bottles, and cement blocks at officers, with two sustaining injuries from the cement blocks. The Department of Homeland Security also reported two arrests for assaulting federal law enforcement, which is a felony.

Why it matters

The 'No Kings' protests were organized across the country to oppose the Trump administration's policies, including the war in Iran and immigration enforcement. The Los Angeles incident highlights growing tensions between law enforcement and demonstrators, raising concerns about the ability to exercise free speech rights while maintaining public safety.

The details

Police said the riot began after an initial crowd of 1,000 protesters gathered outside the federal building in downtown Los Angeles. After officers attempted to disperse the crowd, rioters started throwing projectiles at the police. In addition to the 75 arrests, one person was also charged with possession of a dirk or dagger. No injuries were reported during the arrests.

  • The protest and subsequent riot occurred on March 28, 2026.
  • Police declared an unlawful assembly and gave multiple dispersal orders around 5:28 p.m. that day.

The players

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the protest and made the arrests.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency that reported on the incident, including the assault of two federal law enforcement officers.

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What’s next

The LAPD and federal authorities will continue investigating the incident and pursuing charges against those arrested.

The takeaway

This protest highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and demonstrators, as well as the challenges of balancing free speech rights with public safety concerns. The violent turn of events raises questions about the appropriate response to large-scale protests that become unruly.