Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman and Sheriff Robert Luna have announced a wave of criminal charges against men and women accused of recent protests in downtown Los Angeles.
“We will vigorously protect Angelenos’ rights peacefully gathering rights,” Hochman announced the charges at a press conference. “But when someone breaks into violence, destruction, or assault, they are no longer protesters. They are criminals.”
Hochman indicated that prosecutors expect “dozens and dozens of additional cases” to be filed in the coming weeks as authorities review video and social media evidence.
He highlighted five lawsuits during the announcement, with charges ranging from assaulting officers to robbery, vandalism and possession of a weapon.
Juan Rodriguez of Gardena is accused of resisting felony assault and arrests that allegedly distributing and throwing commercial-grade fireworks to police, causing at least one police officer to injure. He has been in prison for over six years.
Luis and Georgina Luis Rovallaro have been accused of driving the motorcycle to officers on a skirmish line and getting injured. Each could face six years and four months in prison.
Tammy Paulk and Raven Mitchell are charged with felony robbery and grand larceny after allegedly looting a Nike store on South Broadway.
Ulysses Sanchez, a convicted felon and alleged “third striker,” is charged with reckless driving and possession of a weapon. If convicted, he will face 25 years of life in prison.
Christopher Gonzalez and Jocelyn Johnson are charged with felony conspiracy and vandalism after allegedly defiling their apartment and the Hall of Fame.
Luna highlighted law enforcement preparation and resolution.
“We have no tolerance for anarchists that causes confusion. If you hurt our officers, destroy our property, or assault others, you will be charged,” he said. Luna also noted the support of US lawyers over possible federal accusations.
Both authorities reiterated that the majority of L.A. residents and protesters remain in peace. Hochman warns that the arrests will continue, adding that investigators are reviewing social media and video evidence. “If you think you committed a crime and you ran away from it, think about it again,” he said.
For those who want to express their views peacefully, both leaders confirmed their full support for First Amendment rights.
“But violence is never tolerated,” Luna said.
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