As unrest spreads across major U.S. cities, particularly in Los Angeles, a retired FBI agent warns of possible serious charges against those involved in the chaos. Jason Pack, a retired FBI special agent, shared with Fox News Digital that federal authorities might label violent acts during protests as “domestic terrorism” if evidence shows individuals aimed to intimidate the public or sway government decisions through force. Although “domestic terrorism” is a defined term, Pack notes that no specific criminal charge carries that name.
A spokesperson for the Department of Justice stated that “nothing is off the table” regarding potential charges. The Department of Justice is committed to prosecuting the most serious offenses and is carefully examining evidence to pursue the strongest legal actions against these so-called domestic terrorists. This commitment is in response to continued violence and unrest, particularly targeting federal immigration enforcement like ICE in Los Angeles.
Tom Cotton is advocating for stricter consequences for pro-immigration rioters in Los Angeles, citing attacks on ICE. During recent protests in the Compton neighborhood, demonstrators clashed with law enforcement, with some waving a combined US-Mexican flag. The Department of Justice spokesperson reiterated their stance, emphasizing that they will pursue the most severe charges against those involved in such violent acts.
Pack explained that while no specific crime called domestic terrorism exists in U.S. law, prosecutors often use existing laws like arson and assault on federal officers to file charges. He stressed that peaceful protesters exercising their First Amendment rights without violence are not subject to terrorism investigations or charges. The term “domestic terrorism” is only applied when criminal actions are ideologically driven.
John Yoo, a former deputy assistant attorney general, supports Pack’s perspective, noting the Department of Justice has ample grounds to charge individuals obstructing federal officers. Pack reiterated that only those committing or planning acts of violence with political motives are subject to these charges. The terrorism label, while not an official charge, can lead to more intensive investigations and harsher sentences.
Pack emphasized that protest-related violence carried out by those with anarchist or anti-government views is more likely to be deemed domestic terrorism. Federal agencies like the FBI and Department of Homeland Security view anarchist violent extremists as a significant threat, especially when their actions are organized and target law enforcement or government institutions. These anarchists often plan extensively, using encrypted messaging apps to coordinate their actions.
Law enforcement analysts attribute the escalating riots to a core group of organized anarchists, about 60 individuals, who infiltrate protest crowds. Their presence is not about marching but executing a well-developed plan. They operate with precision, avoiding slogans and relying on structure to carry out their aims.
These agitators arrive dressed in black, quickly changing clothes to avoid detection. They are adept at avoiding cameras, creating gaps in police lines, and inciting crowd reactions that lead to violence. Their goal is to hijack peaceful protests, stealing trust and creating chaos.
Pack noted that these groups target highly visible locations like bridges and courthouses. They employ distraction tactics, forcing police to react, and then record those reactions to fuel their narrative on social media. Their methods, having found success in past protests, continue to evolve in sophistication.
Senator Tom Cotton introduced legislation aimed at imposing stricter penalties on violent protesters, particularly those targeting federal agents or in the country illegally. Cotton’s bill seeks to ensure that lawless rioting is met with severe consequences, standing as a safeguard against pro-crime prosecutors who neglect enforcement. Cotton’s move reflects a broader call for accountability amid ongoing unrest.
The FBI is actively investigating any organized efforts designed to incite chaos in Los Angeles. The city has seen hundreds arrested, with cars burned and tensions between rioters and law enforcement escalating. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman has vowed to pursue those exploiting protests for violent and criminal acts.
President Trump faced criticism from several Democrat lawmakers following his decision to deploy 700 U.S. Marines to assist police and the National Guard in restoring order. The deployment aims to support local authorities in their efforts to quell the violence and restore peace to affected areas. Despite pushback, the administration remains committed to restoring law and order amid the ongoing unrest.
