Los Angeles: The FBI has identified a suspect in an incident earlier this weekend during an anti-ICE protest in Los Angeles in which a federal officer was allegedly assaulted. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the update during an appearance on Fox News Monday evening.
Authorities had previously posted a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of a man seen hurling rocks at federal law enforcement vehicles—one of which reportedly struck and injured a federal officer. Over the weekend, Bondi confirmed that investigators had secured his identity.
Bondi stated that those who participate in violent or destructive actions during protests will be held accountable. Bondi said that the DOJ would pursue charges under the Hobbs Act, which covers robbery, extortion, and attacks on federal personnel. Penalties are severe, including up to 20 years in prison for looting, and up to five years for spitting on a federal officer.
FBI Director Kash Patel said that if local authorities did not pursue criminal charges against those assaulting law enforcement, the federal government would.
“If you assault a law enforcement officer, you’re going to jail—period,” Patel said.
He added that enforcement will proceed without regard to the suspect’s background, immigration status, or motivations.
“If local jurisdictions don’t hold law enforcement, the FBI will step in.”
