Los Angeles, California — Federal authorities have filed charges against a dozen individuals connected to violent protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) this summer. The charges, detailed in three criminal complaints, involve actions that allegedly endangered law enforcement officials and damaged property, including police vehicles.
Prosecutors claim the defendants participated in a series of violent disturbances, which included trapping police officers under an overpass while assaulting them with various objects during demonstrations related to ICE activities. As of now, ten of the accused are in federal custody, one is in state custody pending transfer, and one remains a fugitive.
Bill Essayli, acting as United States Attorney, emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating violence against law enforcement. He mentioned that previous warnings about legal consequences for violent actions were meant to uphold public safety. “Those who breach the law will be held accountable,” he said, reiterating the government’s position on public safety.
Among the incidents under scrutiny is a brutal attack on California Highway Patrol officers that occurred on June 8. Protesters reportedly threw scooters, signs, and other projectiles from an overpass onto a freeway where police vehicles were stationed. Images of the chaos garnered national attention and prompted a response from the federal government, including the deployment of the National Guard.
Nine suspects specifically charged with vandalism against California Highway Patrol vehicles were named in a federal complaint. Their actions during the protests became a rallying point for federal response, as these images were circulated widely in media reports.
The individuals charged in connection with obstructing law enforcement are identified as: Ronald Alexis Coreas, 23; Junior Roldan, 27; Elmore Sylvester Cage, 34; Balto Montion, 24; Jesus Gonzalez Hernandez Jr., 22; Hector Daniel Ramos, 66; Stefano Deong Green, 34; Yachua Mauricio Flores, 23; and Ismael Vega, 41. These individuals are accused of complicity in actions that aimed to prevent police from maintaining order during the protests.
Further complicating matters are arrests related to a fatal incident involving a migrant worker during ICE raids in Ventura County. Authorities have linked several protesters to a group known as “VC Defensa,” which allegedly obstructs law enforcement enforcing immigration laws. However, prosecutors noted that not all members may be engaged in unlawful conduct.
Virginia Reyes, identified as a member of VC Defensa, was charged after she reportedly used her vehicle to obstruct federal agents conducting searches at marijuana grow sites. Reyes has a history of encounters with law enforcement, drawing attention for her actions during these demonstrations.
Additional arrests include individuals accused of physically assaulting agents during an ICE operation at Ambiance Apparel on June 6, with one suspect allegedly using pepper spray against officers.
Kenny Cooper, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in Los Angeles, stressed the importance of distinguishing between protest and violence. “Peaceful protest is a right; assault is a crime,” he stated, reaffirming their commitment to protect the safety of law enforcement personnel and the communities they serve.