U.S. military operations in Los Angeles are currently under the command of Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who has clarifications about the authority of the deployed troops amid ongoing protests.
According to Sherman, the approximately 4,700 National Guard troops and Marines are permitted to temporarily detain individuals if necessary, but they do not possess the power to make arrests.
The troops have been stationed in the Greater Los Angeles Area to protect federal buildings and personnel, particularly following a surge of protests spurred by recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the city.
In an interview with ABC News and the Associated Press, Sherman emphasized, “We’re there to protect their federal officers, their federal personnel. We’re there to protect them so that they can do their job.”
When asked about the protocol if federal personnel are assaulted, Sherman stated, “Soldiers or Marines are allowed to take that person, detain them in place, wait for the federal law enforcement officer to come and arrest that individual.”
He clarified that this detention may involve brief physical contact to subdue an individual who has acted violently against federal personnel.
Sherman explained, “We consider it once the Guard member has his or her arm or holding that person, that’s when they’re detaining that person.”
Training is a priority for the deployed troops; all National Guard troops and Marines in Los Angeles have undergone or are currently receiving several days of specific training focused on crowd control and the rules of force applicable to their mission.
Moreover, about 500 National Guardsmen have completed extensive training to accompany ICE during immigration raids, although they are not responsible for carrying out law enforcement duties.
Sherman noted that this collaborative effort marks the first time troops are working alongside ICE, prompting a series of detailed rehearsals entitled “crawl, walk, run” to ensure both entities understand the operational procedures and requirements for protection.
He stressed the importance of meticulous planning, advising ICE to clearly communicate their needs to ensure the safety of both federal personnel and the National Guardsmen involved.
Despite the presence of National Guardsmen during ICE operations, Sherman was uncertain if these activities would persist after the protests have concluded.
Additional complications arise from a legal challenge to the deployment, initiated by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Governor Gavin Newsom.
Their lawsuit asserts that the federal government’s deployment of troops lacks proper coordination with the state and contradicts the 10th Amendment of the Constitution, invoking concerns over state sovereignty.
President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Governor Newsom, alleging that he failed to provide timely protection for ICE officers who faced hostility during the protests.
In response to questions about the legal proceedings during a news conference, Sherman remarked, “That’s beyond my scope. I’m here to run operations.”
Though recent days have seen a decrease in protest activity, Sherman is anticipating a potential increase in unrest due to nationwide protests planned for the upcoming weekend.
“I’m focused right here in L.A., what’s going on right here. But you know, I think we’re, we’re very concerned,” Sherman reflected regarding the situation.
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