A wave of protests has surged in response to recent ICE raids in Southern California, stirring tensions and mobilizing communities across the greater Los Angeles area this month. While many demonstrations have been peaceful, clashes between protesters and law enforcement have led to multiple injuries and arrests.
One notable case involves Alejandro Orellana, a 29-year-old East L.A. resident and member of the Boyle Heights-based social justice group Centro CSO. According to a complaint issued on June 12 by FBI Special Agent Rene Persaud, Orellana faces federal charges for his alleged actions at a protest in downtown Los Angeles on June 9.
He is being charged with “conspiring to commit civil disorders” and “aiding and abetting civil disorders” for reportedly distributing face shields and water bottles to demonstrators. The complaint mentions that Orellana was assisted in this effort by an unidentified woman.
On June 12, the FBI executed a raid on Orellana’s family home in East L.A., leading to his arrest. Centro CSO members describe Orellana as a long-time advocate for immigrants’ and workers’ rights. Following his arrest, many local activists condemned the operation as an unjust response to his civic engagement.
The situation escalated on June 18 when a U.S. magistrate judge authorized a warrant permitting federal officials to search the cell phone of Vera “Verita” Topete, another member of Centro CSO, shortly after Orellana’s arrest. This action follows an unprecedented increase in the intensity and scope of ICE raids, with Homeland Security officials making clear their intent to arrest those they believe interfere with law enforcement actions.
Some activists argue that the current environment has led to illegal harassment, detentions, and arrests of individuals asserting their First Amendment rights while documenting ICE raids and standing by their communities. A prominent incident occurred on June 6, when David Huerta, President of the California Service Employees International Union, sustained injuries while documenting a raid in downtown Los Angeles, subsequently inciting protests for his release.
The legal troubles began on June 12 when FBI agents raided Orellana’s home and took him into custody. The charges against him carry a substantial penalty, with a maximum of five years in federal prison for each count, according to U.S. Attorney Bilal “Bill” Essayli.
At a press conference, Essayli remarked that Orellana was taken into custody for his alleged role in violent protests and claimed that he had distributed face shields “to individuals who appear to be engaged in violence and vandalism.” Orellana remained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles until his release the following day, facilitated by family and friends posting a $5,000 bail.
Upon his release, Orellana addressed supporters outside the federal courthouse, asserting, “Protesting is not a crime.” His preliminary hearing was initially scheduled for June 27 but has been postponed to July 3, as per the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California’s schedule.
Following the warrant executed on Topete’s electronic device on June 26, the connection between her and Orellana’s case has yet to be clarified.
Details surrounding the distribution of masks by Orellana remain ambiguous. It is unknown what motivated him, who assisted him, or the identity of the individuals receiving the face shields. These particular masks are designed for protection against chemical splashes and high-impact flying debris, potentially providing necessary safety during confrontations with law enforcement, where these agents reportedly used less-than-lethal rounds aimed at protesters, journalists, and innocent bystanders.
Sources have suggested that Orellana may be a former U.S. Marine; however, Boyle Heights Beat has been unable to confirm this claim. The situation emphasizing the state’s increasing scrutiny of activists has raised alarm among various human rights groups. Boyle Heights Beat has reached out to the FBI for clarification regarding the search warrant executed at Topete’s residence, but no response has been received as of yet.
In light of these developments, Centro CSO organized a press conference on June 27 at Ruben Salazar Park, during which Orellana made a statement to express gratitude toward his supporters.
Orellana acknowledged the combined efforts of friends, family, community members, and allies that made his release possible and extended special thanks to Centro CSO for their immediate response to his arrest. Moreover, he expressed appreciation for various organizations that rallied for his cause, including Legalization for All Network, Union Del Barrio, Black Lives Matter LA, and the National Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression.
Orellana said, “I am confident that the justice system will absolve me of any wrongdoing, and I thank you for your support during this process.”
The situation continues to evolve, with multiple organizations vocally opposing the charges against Orellana. Activists are advocating for his legal defense and the broader fight against federal actions perceived as suppressing civil rights.
Boyle Heights Beat will follow this story closely as more information and developments come to light.
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