Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) saw back-to-back anti-ICE protests on Friday and Saturday, February 2026, drawing thousands of demonstrators demanding the removal of federal immigration agents from local communities. While daytime rallies remained largely peaceful, tensions escalated after nightfall, leading to dispersal orders, tear gas deployment, fireworks thrown at agents, and multiple arrests by LAPD and federal officers.

The protests were part of the nationwide “ICE Out of Everywhere” day of action, organized by groups including the 50501 Women’s March and Common Defense, and were fueled by outrage over recent federal agent-involved shootings in Minnesota.

Key Timeline of DTLA Anti-ICE Protests (February 2026)

Date & Time (approx.)Event SummaryPolice / Federal ResponseArrests & Outcome
Friday daytimeThousands join “ICE Out” rally near federal detention centerPeaceful during daylight hoursNo arrests reported during main rally
Friday nightProtesters throw trash, debris at federal agents guarding loading dockAgents fire pepper balls & irritant spray8 arrests: 1 assault with deadly weapon on officer, 1 curfew violation, 6 failure to disperse
Saturday daytimeHundreds rally outside L.A. City Hall, peaceful demonstrationNo major intervention during main eventPeaceful overall
Saturday nightSmall group throws fireworks, rocks, bottles at federal agents near Federal BuildingTear gas deployed; unlawful assembly declaredMultiple arrests for failure to disperse; streets closed
Sunday early morningLAPD issues citywide tactical alert; ongoing arrests for non-complianceAll officers on duty, no end-of-shift releaseArrests continue; situation monitored

What Triggered the Clashes & Police Response?

  • Demonstrators targeted federal agents at the detention center loading dock (Friday) and near the Federal Building (Saturday).
  • Items thrown included trash, debris, industrial fireworks, rocks, and bottles.
  • LAPD and federal agents responded with pepper balls, irritant sprays, and tear gas.
  • Multiple dispersal orders and unlawful assembly declarations were issued under California Penal Code 409.
  • Citywide tactical alert activated: all LAPD officers remain on duty until further notice.

Authorities stressed that while peaceful protest is protected, violence, property damage, or impeding federal operations will result in immediate arrests.

Anti-ICE Protest & Police Enforcement FAQ

Q1: Why did the DTLA protests turn chaotic after dark? A: Daytime rallies were mostly peaceful, but smaller groups began throwing fireworks, rocks, bottles, and debris at federal agents after nightfall, prompting tear gas and dispersal orders.

Q2: How many people were arrested and why? A: On Friday, 8 arrests were made: 1 for assault with a deadly weapon on an officer, 1 for curfew violation, and 6 for failure to disperse. Saturday arrests continued for similar charges after dispersal orders were ignored.

Q3: What is a dispersal order and what happens if you don’t comply? A: A dispersal order legally requires everyone in the area to leave immediately. Failure to comply can result in arrest for unlawful assembly or failure to disperse (California Penal Code 409).

Q4: Is downtown Los Angeles safe right now? A: Several streets near Alameda, Temple, and Commercial remain closed or restricted. Avoid protest zones to prevent being caught in confrontations or subject to arrest.

Q5: What is the connection to the Minnesota shootings? A: Protesters linked the DTLA actions to the recent fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minnesota, demanding accountability and the removal of ICE from local communities.

Q6: Will there be more protests and arrests in Los Angeles? A: Organizers have called for continued nationwide action. Police have stated they will arrest anyone engaging in violence or refusing to disperse. Stay updated through official channels.

The situation in DTLA remains fluid, with law enforcement emphasizing protection of federal property and public safety. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid protest areas and monitor local alerts.

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By chou

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